How do we measure success? Is it in the wealth we amass or the positive ripples we create in the lives of others? In a world often fixated on financial metrics, Matthew Patsky, CEO & Portfolio Manager at Trillium Asset Management, challenges us to redefine success. According to Patsky, our legacy is not etched in dollars or possessions but in the profound impact we have on the lives of those around us. As he contemplates his own legacy, he hopes to be remembered as someone who left the world a better place.

Patsky's journey to this philosophy wasn't paved with unbroken success. He candidly shares the invaluable lessons he gleaned from a failed venture—a small food business launched with his husband. The experience, though financially unrewarding, became a classroom that taught him more than any academic institution could. The core lesson is that having a brilliant idea isn't enough; success hinges on securing financing and assembling a talented team.

Reflecting on the pitfalls of their food business, Patsky draws parallels to broader business landscapes. He highlights the significance of not just having a good idea but also possessing the financial backing and the right people to execute it. Drawing a historical reference, he points out the seemingly 'dumb' idea of selling books with hefty discounts and free shipping—a strategy that evolved into Amazon's triumphant business model, AWS, now a major contributor to the company's earnings.

Patsky's narrative urges us to look beyond conventional success markers and recognize the transformative power of resilience and adaptability. In a world where financial victories often overshadow the intangible impact on humanity, Matthew Patsky's journey stands as a testament to the idea that true success is measured not just in profits but in the positive change we bring to the world.

 

Journey as a Business Leader

Matt embarked on his journey as a business leader as a young administrative assistant at Lehman Brothers, stationed on the 101st floor of the 2 World Trade Center. Within a remarkably short span of three years, his dedication and competence led to a significant promotion to Assistant VP of Equity Research. This period was instrumental in shaping Matt's perspective on professional development and seizing opportunities within an organization. His realization that Lehman actively encouraged such growth prompted him to register for the CFA program and pursue every licensing exam available, showcasing a relentless pursuit of excellence.

Navigating the corporate landscape with determination, by the age of 22, Matt had acquired the necessary registrations not only to manage his department but also the entire firm. What sets this narrative apart is Matt's strategic approach—focusing on the job he desired while excelling in his current role. This strategy, coupled with leveraging educational benefits and making indispensable contributions, allowed him to defy conventional career trajectories.

 

The Growth and Contribution of Trillium

Trillium, a pioneer in integrating environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors into investment processes, witnessed transformative leadership under Matt's guidance. Assuming the role in 2009, Matt strategically expanded Trillium's legacy into the institutional market, resulting in almost tenfold growth. Since its inception in 1982, Trillium has consistently demonstrated the materiality of ESG factors in investment decisions. Matt's leadership not only amplified this legacy but also contributed to the broader adoption of ESG integration across the investment industry, aligning with fiduciary duties.

Motivating Trillium's workforce is centered on a profound mission—leveraging clients' capital for positive social and environmental impacts. Beyond financial success, Matt emphasizes the importance of contributing to a more equitable, green, and sustainable planet. Trillium's trajectory under Matt's stewardship exemplifies a business model where financial success coexists with a commitment to societal and environmental betterment.

 

The Future of Trillium

In its current phase of "going global," Trillium is experiencing unprecedented growth, having successfully launched strategies in Australia. The firm anticipates further expansion into Europe by the end of 2022. This strategic global expansion aligns with the increasing demand for Trillium's services, positioning the organization as a significant player on the international stage. Matt's vision for Trillium includes a steadfast commitment to making a positive impact on a global scale, reflecting the organization's ongoing success and influence.

 

The Journey & Responsibilities of A CEO

Matt's journey as a business leader is deeply rooted in his early years in Enfield, Connecticut, where he was born into a blue-collar Catholic family. His parents' dedication and the experience of being a latchkey kid shaped his work ethic. Matt's early foray into investing at age 11, investing $500 in socially responsible funds, showcased his innate curiosity and commitment to aligning investments with broader societal impact.

Faced with challenges in securing a job in economic development post-graduation, Matt turned to his second passion—investing. His entry into the industry at Lehman marked the beginning of a career dedicated to understanding the connection between quality management and company performance. Matt's commitment to socially responsible investing, particularly incorporating ESG factors, defied norms on 1980s Wall Street.

 

Balance in Personal and Professional Life & Personal Goals

For Matt, achieving a balance between personal and professional life is essential for sustained success. Taking breaks for travel and frequent weekends at Cape Cod with his husband are integral to maintaining a positive environment. Matt's personal goal is to propel Trillium to a global scale, establishing it as the premier organization for impact investing worldwide. This visionary objective is underlined by Matt's dedication to making Trillium synonymous with positive societal and environmental contributions on a global scale. His advice to aspiring business leaders revolves around focusing on passion, disregarding naysayers, and fostering self-belief—a mantra derived from his own journey of overcoming doubts and skepticism.