His story is remarkable. Michael A. Nutter W'79 shook up Philadelphia politics when he rose from obscurity to win the 2007 mayoral election in an historic landslide. Who ever said Wharton alumni succeeded only in finance? Yes, Philly's most powerful person sports a business degree. Jumping from private finance to public service, Nutter has taken his entrepreneurial spirit to City Hall. Before running for the City's corner office, Nutter built a legacy as City Councilman, pushing landmark reforms through the legislature. Ethics panels, smoking laws, and labor deals were only some of the initiatives he championed. A life-long Philadelphia resident, Nutter loves his city. And the city of "Brotherly Love" loves him back.
What was it like growing up in Philadelphia?
I wouldn't have wanted to grow up anywhere else. The community I lived in was remarkable. Everyone knew each other and looked out for each other. Every parent felt a sense of responsibility for each kid. I loved it.
Why Business?
Growing up, I always felt at ease dealing with people. I was, in general, an intellectually curious kid. I participated in many different activities and engaged with many different types of people. I was also very idealistic and ambitious. For these reasons, business was an intuitive career choice. There seemed to be no limit to what you could achieve as a successful, entrepreneurial business man. I wanted to combine my interest in business with a background in medicine. I had quite an ambitious academic appetite. So I started college as a pre-med and business student.
But the pre-med curriculum didn't last long?
As it turned out, studying both areas required delving deeply into two distinct disciplines. I soon realized my eyes were too big for my stomach. The science requirements, on top of a challenging Wharton curriculum, left no time for anything besides school.
What were your most valuable lessons from Wharton?
Wharton provided me the analytical and quantitative skills to succeed not only in the business world, but far beyond. It gave me a clear advantage in the work force once I left school and gave me the confidence to become a leader in my work environment. Another thing I loved about the Wharton undergraduate program was its breadth and liberal arts emphasis. I was able to take about half of my credits in the College. I think the courses I took in Political Science and History were as useful as any of the others.
How did you balance work and play?
My education didn't end at 5 o'clock. Mark Twain once said, 'Never let your schooling get in the way of your education.' When I was in college I had never heard that quote, but I certainly lived out that mantra. While at school, I took a job at Impulse Disco on North Broad Street. I worked there for quite some time. As it turned out, Impulse was a hotspot for a rising movement of leaders who would eventually take over Philadelphia politics.
So you can actually trace your steps to the mayoral office to a job at a nightclub?
Yes, it's somewhat surprising looking back on it, but that's what happened. A lot a man's future depends on luck. And I do think talent always rises. Impulse put me in the right place at the right time, but who knows if I wouldn't have met these people elsewhere.
Can you talk about your time as an investment broker?
Looking back on it, it was a worthwhile experience. The hours were demanding, but the work was fascinating. It isn't every day that you work on deals with some of the country's largest organizations. Interacting with top executives will certainly teach you a lot, not only about business, but about leadership and efficiency. Wharton prepared me well for that job and I benefited from the fact that so many of my colleagues were Wharton alumni.
What prompted you to leave the business world for politics?
Yes, very risky. Some even called it "career suicide." This is all about risk and reward. In terms of what I accomplished, it was a good business decision. In terms of having money in my pocket, it was not a good business decision. When you're passionate about something, you often have to make these tradeoffs.
How exciting is your new job?
I can't think of a better job. I love it. I wake up each day excited to make a difference. Right now Philadelphia is in a position to flourish and I am honored to help shape its future. I also enjoy the teamwork component of the job. I am fortunate be surrounded by extremely bright and dedicated people.
Just how important is your staff?
An executive - whether in business or in government - is only as good as his team. One person can do only so much in the course of a day. I am lucky enough to have an exceptional group of people supporting me. The camaraderie among my staff is excellent and the whole is definitely greater than the sum of its parts. We work together very synergistically.
How are you using your business skills in the Mayor's Office?
My Wharton experience helped shape my view of running this city as a corporation. It's a $4 billion corporation called the City of Philadelphia: 22,000 employees, 17 members of City Council as a board of directors, and I have a million and a half shareholders, the citizens of Philadelphia, who work hard, pay their taxes and expect a return on their investment
Do you have any advice for young people starting out?
Follow your passions. I know it's easier said than done, but you will learn over time that passion is the only thing that matters. After all, I ended up where I am today because of a job I loved at a nightclub. I know that's probably an exception, but it's telling in a way.