Team
Chris Kelly
As a third-generation entrepreneur, my passion for small businesses started with my father treating me as a mini-business partner, and it solidified during my time at Schwazze where I was the do-er for >$180mm of funds raised and >$220mm of capital deployed, growing the company from ~$10mm of revenue to ~$170mm in under 3 years. Embracing different roles, I helped establish and develop a sophisticated structure across various departments.
My first stock was Lehman Brothers, a Christmas gift from my uncle, and its subsequent collapse less than a year later spurred my lifelong fascination with investing and finance. I have furthered this passion through my work, studies, and pursuit of the CFA, and I strive to forge long-term partnerships with my clients that entrust me with advising their allocation of their business’s or family’s capital.
Zoë Yeshayahu
Design transcends aesthetics, eliciting an emotional response while effectively communicating a message. My captivation with the power of design thinking - be it in music, photography, graphic design, or marketing - stems from my upbringing. As architecture professors, my parents have instilled in me an appreciation for the functionality of design that I use to create compelling solutions that tell a story, evoke emotion, and achieve their desired outcomes.
I earned a Bachelor’s degree in Music Business from DePauw University, where I concentrated on design and non-profit operations. Post-graduation, I joined Venture For America, a start-up-focused fellowship, where I learned how to build businesses that make a positive social impact. I worked at a start-up in Detroit, took classes, and became a Local Coordinator for WMN, VFA’s women’s group.
Resume
CK: Previously, I worked at BMO Capital Markets as a Summer Investment Bank Real Estate Analyst, and I had a semester-long internship with Albertsons’ Companies’ Corporate Development Department where was I trained by Cerberus Capital investment professionals and former Morgan Stanley, Citi, and UBS bankers while working on numerous M&A projects, including Rite Aid and Plated.
ZY: Currently, as Marketing Coordinator for Rebel Nell, a Detroit-based jewelry company empowering women with barriers to entry, I oversee content creation, graphic design, email marketing, marketing strategy, social media guidance, and website design. Previously, I served as Content Creator and managed social media, including community engagement digital and copy media.
Fun Facts
CK: A fan of college football and basketball, I also relish being outside while hiking, whitewater rafting, or mountain biking. I am a first-generation American and a dual US-UK citizen. I volunteer as a fundraising consultant for my former high school and youth football teams, and I continually seek opportunities to give back.
ZY: I have a beloved senior dog named Dior that joins me when I explore new trails and beaches. She also enjoys cuddling while I crochet cozy blankets, scarves, and other items for loved ones and charity. Dior is also an accomplished vocalist when I play my oboe, English horn, or piano.