Co-Founder
Piedmont Valley Truffles
New York, Ny / Rockford, Nc
Owner and operator of a family business cultivating black truffles- Upon inception and for the first five years, maintained all business and financial operations of the company; brought together team of outside co-partners to head the farming operations and scientific research. For the following five years, continued to provide strategic and financial counsel as the second largest investor and member of the Board of Directors.- Developed overall business strategy; authored and honed a comprehensive business plan with pro-forma financials, including a discounted cash flow analysis and market multiple valuations. Raised $1.15mm in high net worth (non "friends and family") and angel investment capital with no physical business operations at the time of the fundraising.- Engaged in all aspects of the startup company, from farming to finance, traveled to NC biweekly on weekends for the company's first five years until operations were firmly entrenched, and concurrently established relationships in NYC with restaurateurs, chefs and distribution partners.- Spearheaded Investor Relations communication plus all PR & Marketing initiatives, including company and personal appearances on ABC's 20/20 and Fox News, with various articles in local and national publications. Designed full website layout, and authored all content, with integrated social media.