The LEV team has been working together for just over one year. As I reflect back on our first year, I am struck by just how much I have learned in this relatively short period of time. I have learned that I still have so much to learn!
Coming primarily from a larger corporate setting, I took for granted how much effort is required to run a business. From the more benign tasks such as setting up payroll and benefits, to more difficult but critical undertakings such as successful marketing, there is a seemingly endless number of items to accomplish.
While there is a lot to do, I have also seen the tremendous benefits of working for a smaller company. Our company is nimble, and we can adjust very quickly to a changing investment landscape. At the same time, our core of finding and growing small businesses remains core.
I am blessed with the opportunity to work with two very smart entrepreneurs who have been in the trenches of small business ownership for a few decades. Their invaluable experiences have helped me to understand the nuances of small business ownership, and I continue to glean valuable insight from their journey.
At the same time, I believe that I offer a different (and hopefully valuable) perspective on operating a business. I am responsible for financial reporting, and many other administrative and operations tasks. I gladly take this off my partner’s plate to free them up to explore future opportunities. At the same time, we don’t work in silos. My partners help with my work, and I assist them as well.
I have learned that in general, my partners have a bit more creativity than me. At the same time, I believe my more pragmatic approach helps LEV to strike a good balance between looking at the art of the possible and what is realistic in the short run.
I enjoy working with the team, and stewarding the resources we have been entrusted. I am convinced that our thesis is accurate, and that LEV will drive value for investors over the long term.
Overall, I am most grateful for the opportunity to continue to learn.