I am a banker. I’ve been in banking since 1996 – sometimes face up, sometimes face down. It’s what I love to do.
Since 2003, I’ve focused exclusively on private banking, which means that I deliver service to clients that is much more personal than a mass-market retail bank can provide. I do this in New York City, which is a tough place to compete. I’m fortunate to work for a great bank with amazing people, so the competition doesn’t intimidate me, it excites me.
This site is a place for me to write about things that are important to me – things like remarkable client experiences, meaningful relationships and leaving a legacy. A word of caution: if you want long posts backed by lots of research, bounce now. You’re in the wrong place.
My Philosophy
My approach to business and life is simple: it’s not about me. It’s about generosity – with my family, clients, colleagues and community.
Recently I’ve noticed that it’s getting difficult to tell the difference between my work and my hobbies. I think that’s a good thing.
What Else?
I read a lot. I’m passionate about fitness, nutrition and red wine. I’m running the ING New York City Marathon in November 2012 (my first) with Team for Kids, a group of adult athletes who raise funds for New York Road Runners youth services.
Where Else?
You can find me on Twitter and foursquare almost every day. I also have pages on LinkedIn and about.me. And recently I started a Tumblog to track my preparation for the marathon.
About the Site Name
I’ve always been fascinated with entrepreneurial companies. Companies that obsess with thrilling external customers, not internal ones. Companies that stand for something. They know they’ll win – dominate, actually – if they have a mission, stick to their story and do meaningful work. Which is why they don’t panic if the 800 pound gorilla puts a target on them.
In a moment of insanity, I started referring to dominant, entrepreneurial firms as baby gorillas, and the name stuck. Well, it stuck with me – I wouldn’t exactly say it’s spreading like wildfire.
If calling my site babygorillas.com makes me seem weird, so be it.
Disclaimer
This is my personal blog. The views expressed here are solely mine, and do not necessarily reflect the opinion of my employer.
