By: David Levy
Keen-Summit Capital Partners & Summit Investment Management
Make It Rain!
My TMA journey began in 2012. It was during one of my early networking lunches that Barb Yong from Golan & Christie encouraged me to join the Membership Committee, which became a great way to meet new people. The following year, I took on the role of Co-Chair, and over the next three years, I transitioned into various roles including the Breakfast Committee, Sponsorship, Communications, and eventually Vice President of Communications and Programming. As I write this letter as the Chapter President, I am filled with nostalgia—a true career honor.
Continuing our 12-year tradition of having a chapter theme, I chose “Make It Rain!” This theme has a personal origin that I’d like to share with you.
The concept stems from a job I had over 20 years ago as a consumer product Brand Manager at a housewares company. I reported to the company President, Ralph Denisco, who is a brilliant marketing mind. Ralph made a bold move by giving our largest retail customer—a company known for low prices—a price increase to fund an advertising campaign for one of our top brands. The campaign highlighted the brand’s unique selling points, reminding consumers why it was special and driving sales for both us and the retailer. The plan was successful, and it was inspiring to see how sometimes, the change you need is simply to remind people why you’re great.
I feel the same way about TMA Chicago/Midwest. It’s hard to imagine a better-run or more prosperous trade association. While there’s always room for improvement, our new initiatives are incremental to a great core.
“Making It Rain” typically refers to securing deals and my goal is to spark a realization among our members not to take for granted the many opportunities we offer to grow their brand and business. As restructuring professionals in Chicago, you’re in a unique position—take advantage of TMA Chicago/Midwest!
However, in our industry of turnaround, restructuring, and “special situations,” we “Make It Rain” in many ways:
- Addition By Subtraction: Reducing sales to increase profit by shedding unprofitable customers.
- Crisis Management: Bringing calm from chaos when parachuting into a distressed company.
- Navigating Challenges: Handling the trifecta of “no money, reporting, or time” and finding a path forward.
- Adaptability: Having the skills to navigate the unusual situations we encounter regularly.
- Networking: Knowing who to call or having the right connectors to provide service in niche situations—having a bench of resources and talent at your disposal.
I often say that in this business, the good news is that your next deal can come from anywhere, and the bad news is that it can come from anywhere, so you need to be everywhere! TMA members across the nation inherently understand this and why “special situations” is the perfect phrase for our world. By harnessing the collective power of TMA Chicago/Midwest, we “Make It Rain” for each other and our clients.
Looking forward to a great 2025. Thank you for your support.
