At 500 Management
Ben focuses on deal sourcing, business development, capital allocation and strategic partnerships. He works with entrepreneurs and operators to evaluate commercial potential, structure partnerships and identify the resources needed to build a durable business.
- Deal sourcing and commercial evaluation
- Capital allocation and partnership structure
- Business development and distribution
- Strategic relationships and new opportunities
Selected operating experience
Consumer products, retail & distribution
Ben has helped build and scale businesses involving wholesale distribution, retail operations, inventory management and multiple locations. His responsibilities have included capital investment, vendor and supplier relationships, expansion decisions, management oversight and financial performance.
That work has involved the practical demands of growth: inventory and working capital, hiring, compliance, distribution and the systems needed to support a larger operation.
Transportation & logistics
Ben founded FAO Transport LLC, a transportation and logistics business serving customers across the United States. His work has included capitalization, equipment purchases, insurance and financing strategy, management oversight and fleet economics.
He has also worked on driver and dispatcher compensation structures and financial strategy, with a focus on the cost discipline required in a competitive, capital-intensive industry.
How he approaches a partnership
Ben looks for situations where involvement can add value beyond the capital itself. That may mean opening distribution channels, building operating infrastructure, developing commercial relationships or helping an experienced operator turn an opportunity into a company.
Investment structure, operating responsibilities and ownership are determined for each opportunity after a conversation and diligence. Read more about 500 Management’s approach and scope.
Current focus
At 500 Management, Ben is evaluating new businesses, established companies and commercialization opportunities nationwide. He has a particular interest in university-developed technologies, intellectual property and prototypes that show technical promise but need a commercial path to market.
Learn about technology commercialization, explore a partnership for an existing business, or introduce a business you want to build.