Hometown: Miami, FL
Education: BA in Economics, Columbia University
Before Wharton: Banking (private client services)
After Wharton: Vice President, Trivest Partners, L.P.
Jorge A. Gross, Jr., WG'06
About Me At Wharton
Wharton not only teaches you about leadership in class and encourages you to practice it outside the classroom – it gives you the opportunities to do it.
Can you tell us about your current job?
I am currently a Vice President at a private equity firm, Trivest Partners, based in Miami, FL. I am responsible for sourcing, negotiating and executing investments in founder/family-owned businesses. Additionally, I am responsible for monitoring the firm's portfolio companies.
Can you talk about switching careers?
Without Wharton, I am not sure I would be where I am today, and much less in private equity. I was a “career switcher” in business school, going from client services to private equity. Given how difficult it is to break into private equity, it probably would not have been possible without the credibility a Wharton MBA brings to the table. And now that I am in the industry, I rely on my MBA education every day to perform my job at the highest level possible.
Can you tell me how you feel the Wharton return on investment has been for you?
In very simple monetary terms, my total compensation pre-Wharton vs. post-Wharton almost tripled. Employers certainly value a Wharton MBA and the skills we bring to the table. But more importantly, the Wharton MBA has opened up an entirely new network that I call upon consistently. This network and the connection Wharton alumni have is unsurpassed and makes you a much more valuable member of any team because of the resources you have available to you.
How do you utilize the Wharton alumni community?
The Wharton alumni network is as good as it gets. The best part of our network is the willingness of all Wharton alums to “take the call.” Wharton alums have an instant connection and a mutual respect unlike any other I have ever experienced. I know that when I speak to an alum that I am not only getting good information, but I am also talking to someone who will take the call again another day. Wharton alums have a willingness to help that began at school and continues in the professional world.
