Robert D. Birnbaum

Background

About Robert D. Birnbaum

Robert’s career has ranged from the ‘white shoe’ world of JP Morgan to the frontiers of Medical Marijuana. His success has been based on creativity, analytic ability, communication skills, intelligence, conceptual ability, drive, and entrepreneurial spirit. Each executive role has been in a highly regulated industry and developing expert knowledge of the applicable regulations has been key. BUILDING ASSET MANAGEMENT BUSINESSESAt each stage of his career in Asset Management, Robert has been a business builder, introducing new products, managing strategic functions, leading from the frontlines, all resulting in significant asset and revenue growth. He co-founded and ran a successful global macro hedge fund. He integrated multiple sales and marketing organizations post-acquisition for Columbia Management and for Credit Suisse. He led JP Morgan Investment Management into new markets and to strategic acquisitions. From his earliest experiences at Vanguard, he has been guided by principles of respect for clients, fiduciary responsibility, and focus on business and investment performance.ENTREPRENEUR AND MEDICAL MARIJUANA PIONEERIn 2013 Robert assembled a group of private investors, including himself, raised $6 million, recruited people with domain knowledge, and led the process of competing for and winning a coveted license. As CEO, managed construction of the facility, hired staff and began production. His ability to navigate a complex set of cultural, legal, and operational challenges led to a successful firm and a profitable exit in 2017. INDEPENDENT BOARD DIRECTORExperienced as an inside Director, Robert serves as an Independent Director of CEO Trust, an Advisory Board member for C.H. Briggs, and also leads the CEO Trust Board training program. He has served on the Boards and as an Officer of several not-for-profit organizations.