Nkrumah Pierre is the managing director of business development for My Business Matches, an online portal that connects buyers and suppliers based on business categories and tracks the business results between buyers and capable/qualified suppliers.
When he takes a break from spearheading global sales and business development efforts for clients like chambers of commerce, trade associations, multinational investment banks, telecommunication conglomerates and non-profit organizations, you can find Pierre spending his spare time training for triathlons or snowboarding.
Prior to joining My Business Matches, Pierre worked with national search firms in a business development capacity. A majority of Nkrumah’s success can be attributed to his participation in networking groups and professional associations.
Hear what Pierre shared in our interview:
What inspires you to show up to work every day?
I am inspired by my passion for connecting like minded professionals and small businesses to fantastic opportunities or life changing opportunities.
Additionally, I am inspired by my drive to make my parents proud and to become a trailblazer as one of the leading African American entrepreneurs and connectors in New York City.
How did you determine your career path?
My career path was determined from being exposed to phenomenal internships such as Morgan Stanley and Enterprise Rent-A-Car. Being exposed to a handful of great business models and exceptional work ethic has molded my career path.
What other industries connect to your career choice?
The industries that connect to my career choice are capital markets, international trade and commerce in addition to procurement and supplier diversity.
Which skill sets are essential to future business leaders and innovators?
The future skill sets that are quite essential to future business leaders and innovators are the ability to synthesize information, make effective decisions, be flexible and creative, tech savvy and most importantly have strong listening skills.
Innovative methods I apply to my business and life revolve around LinkedIn and improving our technology and offerings at My Business Matches.
How do you evaluate your success?
I evaluate my success [based] on how many lives and careers I improve on a daily basis.
Who do you consider your peers in you field?
I consider the following individuals peers in my field who provide great support and best practices:
Jeff Vigil, CEO and Business Partner
Corey Smith
Ivo Philbert
Dale and Tara Favors
Dr. Karennan Carty
Patty Lewis
Erica Lee-Benedetto
Obie McKenzie
Why is it important to learn new skills?
The more knowledge and skill methods I obtain will allow me the cutting edge to be an exceptional resource in my business sector. Reading, research and due diligence are key factors on staying informed.
Name your favorite role models for success in two industries?
Obie McKenzie and Patty Lewis – Finance/ Wall Street
Ivo Philbert- Non-Profit
Names three books that changed how you saw life and you recommend to others?
Expect to Win by Carla Harris
Alchemist by Paulo Coelho
As A Man Thinketh by James Allen
Describe why lifelong learning is important to you?
Lifelong learning is imperative. With technology and R & D constantly evolving, it is essential to stay informed and embrace new approaches to conducting business.
Describe the voice of success in your head?
The voice of success in my head is the sound of my father’s voice. He would say “Push harder than the rest and you will achieve more than most; make a difference in society by giving back to your community; take risks; develop a plan and enterprise. You have nothing to lose but everything to gain.”
What does community mean to you?
When you invest in your community it will flourish and grow. I patronize my local businesses in Harlem. Also, I spend my free time mentoring and speaking to the youth of the community to assist with instilling values, achieving higher education opportunities and a life plan.
Technology plays what role in your daily life?
Technology plays a significant, imperative role in my daily life because it is the main reason why I started my start up business — My Business Matches; which is the leading minority owned technological solution for streamlining the procurement process.
What tools of technology have made the biggest difference in your life?
Two pieces of technology that have been instrumental and life changing are My Business Matches and LinkedIn — hands down!
Define your personal culture?
My personal culture is full of family, integrity, love, laughter, [and] being an avid connector. And, of course, I love physical activity.
Describe your favorite vacation spot?
Aruba; the people and the country are equally beautiful inside and out.
If you could change one thing about the world what would it be?
I would end racism.
If you could change one thing about your self what would it be?
I would love to be five inches taller.
