Gennaro Buonocore
Chairman, Board of Directors
Gennaro Buonocore, a respected investor with a keen interest in human development, began his career as the manager of the Italian Securities Department of Liberty Eurobrokers in the United Kingdom. He then obtained directorships at Smith Barney Shearson, Yamaichi International (Europe), Dresdner Kleinword Benson and at IBJ International (now Mizuho Bank).
In 2000, Buonocore left mainstream investment banking to set up Bracken Partners Ltd., a venture capital boutique. "I needed to change my lifestyle," Buonocore recalls, "from the hectic, fast-paced, adrenaline-filled trading room atmosphere to the more analytical, relaxed pace of corporate finance. My lifestyle improved dramatically, although the stress level stayed the same."
In 2003, he relocated to the United States, where he led several investors to the acquisition of the U.S. media conglomerate Viastar Holdings, whose board he chaired during its turnaround period. Among many lessons there he says he received his first "hands-on" experience with boardroom struggles.
His acquisition vehicle, Maitland Primrose Group, specializes in investment banking and development advisory services in post conflict areas around the world.
Buonocore knows the move has its risks. "I've noticed how difficult it is for someone used to the dynamic rhythm of the private sector to dwell in the public sector's red tape," he says. "But without sounding like Mother Theresa, I truly do want to teach my kids the value of serving and loving the world as a global community."
Buonocore has a bachelor's degree with honors from the European Business School in London. He earned his master's in finance from Webster's London campus in 1994. He is fluent in English, Spanish and Italian.
October
1, 2009
