Michael Bahr Email & Phone Number

Ann Arbor, Mi

Ann Arbor, Michigan

Chicago, Il

Developed a new market strategy for a startup investment firm and partnered with outside agencies and media outlets to introduce the firm to the industries of interest.Initiated contact with owners or business leaders of targeted companies and developed relationships that led to investment discussions with the firm.Built relationships with industry influencers, intermediaries, and investment representatives to generate deal flow for the firm.Part of the investment team that reviewed venture, growth, and later-stage investment opportunities in Active Lifestyle, Consumer Product, Natural Foods, and Technology companies that had an enterprise value between $5 million and $50 million.

Chicago, Il

Part of the senior management team at an award-winning Active Lifestyle company.Led all sponsorship sales and strategic partnership creation for the company.Developed concept for the BTN Big 10K and managed the strategic partnership with the Big Ten Network to execute all facets of the event which attracted 15,000+ in its third year.Connected with key stakeholders at the Chicago Bears and negotiated partnership agreement for the creation of their inaugural 5K during Back to Football Week. The event attracted 3,000+ in its second year.Directed all branding, advertising, social media, and public relation elements for the company’s portfolio of eight participatory events that had 50,000+ participants annually.

Chicago, Il

Recruited to join Life Time Fitness to work with global brands and fast-growing, health-based companies on strategic partnership programs.Developed and implement branding and messaging strategies to engage a large, national active lifestyle audience through multiple channels.

Chicago, Il

Integral part of management team at one of the world's largest endurance sports media and event companies.Developed the strategy for and led a nationwide sales team in selling customized integrated marketing packages to the most recognizable brands in the industry.Part of the publishing management team that consolidated 12 regional media titles into one national brand including a complete re-concept of the editorial and design.Led the RFP and negotiation process to identify a new printing partner for the company's print media assets that resulted in consolidated savings of $2.1 million annually.Company enjoyed double digit revenue growth in 2009 and 2010.

Chicago, Il

Rejoined company after being contacted by former employer and tasked with the responsibility of identifying areas of improvement, creation of new processes, and increasing profitability. Company was acquired by Competitor Group in April 2009.

Naperville, Il

Established a lifestyle media company based on market research and the identification of an underserved market opportunity in the western suburbs of Chicago.Led a team of employees in the creation of content and design that would be attractive to and well-received by our targeted reader and advertiser.Lead revenue generator for the company through the sale of advertising and marketing programs.Approached by an interested party and sold the business after 21 months returning more than 3x the investors' original investments. Media properties currently owned and operated by the Tribune Media Group.

Chicago, Il

Consistently the top revenue producer during tenure.Developed, presented, and implemented advertising and marketing programs for a variety of national clients including BMW, Nissan, Subaru, Gatorade, New Balance Athletic, Brooks Running, and Clif Bar.Managed portfolio of company sponsorships that included the Bank of America Chicago Marathon, New York City Marathon, and Boston Marathon, among others.

Chicago, Il

Began career on the playing fields of the Sport & Social Clubs of the U.S. as part of a team that created memorable experiences for the post-collegiate set in 20 major markets. Activated sponsorship programs for Anheuser-Busch, Brown-Forman, Coca-Cola, Ford Motor Company, New Balance Athletic, and Wilson Sporting Goods.