Blake Dell, one of HBM’s first Associates, has been recognized as one of St. Louis’ brightest young minds in the Business Journal’s ‘40 Under 40.’ Blake shares highlights from his career and how he has kept true to his long-term aspirations.
Even at a young age, Blake knew one day he wanted to run a business. He applied himself in school, attended the University of Kansas as an undergrad and went on to receive his MBA at Saint Louis University. He then started his career at a private equity fund, all in an effort to realize his end goal of managing a business.
While working at the fund, he was introduced to HBM and became intrigued with the newly formed holding company and its Associate Development Program. “The program was unlike what any other company was offering at the time,” said Blake. “HBM’s vision matched exactly what I was looking for: An opportunity to gain experience within different facets of a business to then one day assume a management role. It was a perfect fit,” continued Blake.
During Blake’s two-years in HBM’s Associate program, he worked on portfolio consulting projects and acquisition opportunities including HBM’s purchase of Delavau. With the project work he was doing at HBM’s portfolio company Mississippi Lime, he was able to build strong relationships and soon found himself in a product management role within the company. From there, Blake moved into a business development position where he was most recently promoted to Director.
In his new role, Blake reports directly to Mississippi Lime’s CFO. His duties are diverse and include investment and acquisition pursuits, market development, strategic planning and oversight for two business units. As to what is next for Blake – he is open to whatever opportunity presents itself. He is focused on continuing to broaden his skillset and wants to keep pursuing opportunities to add value to Mississippi Lime’s business and HBM Holdings in general.
Blake and his wife welcomed their second child earlier this spring and are in the process of training for a triathlon in St. Louis this summer.
Please read the St. Louis Business Journal’s article on Blake Dell’s achievement.