In this episode of the Finish Big Podcast, Mark Dorman interviews Fred DiSanto, Chairman and CEO of Ancora Investments. Fred shares his inspiring journey from playing college sports to building a $10 billion investment firm. He discusses pivotal career moments, including his transition from institutional sales to founding Ancora, the challenges of scaling the business, and the strategies that have driven its success.
Fred emphasises the importance of strong relationships, assembling top-tier talent, and offering innovative solutions like activism and alternative investments to differentiate in a competitive market. Fred also highlights his commitment to fostering a culture of ownership, sharing equity with nearly 40 employees during a significant liquidity event in 2021. He reflects on his philanthropic efforts, supporting institutions like Saint Ignatius High School and Case Western Reserve University, and his vision for Ancora's future—focusing on growth, client satisfaction, and community impact. This episode is a masterclass in leadership, succession planning, and building a lasting legacy.
Mark and Fred discuss:
- Relationships Matter: Strong client and team relationships fuel growth.
- Stand Out: Differentiation through unique services drives success.
- Shared Ownership Wins: Employee equity fosters loyalty and growth.
- Community Impact: Supporting education and diversity builds a lasting legacy.
- Plan Ahead: Succession planning ensures stability and continued growth.
Connect with Mark Dorman:
- Succession Plus US
- LinkedIn: Mark Dorman
- LinkedIn: Succession Plus
- Facebook: Succession Plus
- (330)-416-9271
- mdorman@succession.plus
Connect with Fred DeSanto
● LinkedIn
About the Guest:
Fred DiSanto is the Chairman and CEO of Ancora Investments, a leading Midwest-based investment firm managing over $10 billion in assets. With decades of experience in finance, Fred has built a reputation for innovation, leadership, and fostering strong client relationships. A graduate of Case Western Reserve University, Fred is passionate about talent development, philanthropy, and driving growth through proprietary strategies like activism and alternative investments. His dedication to community and excellence has made him a respected figure in the financial industry.
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