Ryan Smith

Project Director, Merchco Services, Inc.
Fayetteville, North Carolina Metropolitan Area,United States
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Who Is Ryan Smith?

Total Experience10 years
CompanyMerchco Services, Inc.
CountryUnited States

Ryan Smith is an American billionaire businessman, best known as the co-founder and executive chairman of Qualtrics, an experience management company. He successfully led Qualtrics from a basement startup, co-founded with his father and brother in 2002, to its multi-billion dollar acquisition by SAP in 2019 for $8 billion, and later spearheaded its successful IPO. Beyond tech, Ryan is a significant figure in the sports world as the majority owner of the Utah Jazz NBA team, acquired in 2020, and is expanding his sports portfolio through Smith Entertainment Group (SEG), which also includes Real Salt Lake of MLS. He is recognized for his entrepreneurial drive, innovative leadership in the tech industry, and commitment to philanthropy, notably through the '5 For The Fight' cancer research campaign, which has raised millions by encouraging individuals and companies to donate $5.

How Did Ryan Smith's Career Path Shape Their Journey?

Ryan Smith's work history includes a series of influential roles in various companies. Here is a detailed list of his professional journey:

Merchco Services, Inc. - Project Director(2015 to Present)

What Are Ryan Smith's Key Achievements?

Co-founder and Executive Chairman of Qualtrics

Co-founded Qualtrics in 2002 while attending Brigham Young University. Grew the company from a survey tool into a comprehensive experience management platform, leading to its $8 billion acquisition by SAP in 2019 and a subsequent successful IPO in 2021 before being taken private again in 2023.

Majority Owner of Utah Jazz (NBA)

Acquired a majority stake in the Utah Jazz NBA franchise in October 2020, fulfilling a lifelong dream and marking a significant investment in his home state's sports and community.

Fortune's 40 Under 40

Recognized multiple times, including in 2016, by Fortune Magazine in their prestigious '40 Under 40' list, highlighting influential young leaders in business.

Founder of '5 For The Fight'

Initiated and champions the '5 For The Fight' campaign, a global movement inviting everyone to donate $5 to the fight against cancer. The campaign has become a prominent philanthropic effort, notably featured on the Utah Jazz jerseys.

Expansion into MLS with Real Salt Lake

Became part of the ownership group for Real Salt Lake (MLS) in 2022, further expanding his influence and investment in Utah sports through Smith Entertainment Group.

What's Ryan Smith's Educational Background?

No education information available.

Buying Intent Signals for Ryan Smith

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Notable news
Hiring actively
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Company Overview

Merchco Services, Inc.
Total employees275
HeadquartersChicago
Founded2012

Merchco Services, Inc. is a leading provider of outsourced merchandising and retail support solutions. We partner with brands and retailers to enhance in-store execution, optimize product presentation, and improve overall customer experience. Our services include visual merchandising, P.O.P. installation, inventory management, brand ambassadorship, and market intelligence reporting, ensuring products are perfectly positioned to drive sales and brand loyalty.

Merchco Services, Inc. Funding Information
Unknown - Total Funding Raised
$7M - Most recent funding amount
3 - Number of funding rounds
June 10, 2022 - Latest funding round
Lead Investors:
Windy City Ventures
Great Lakes Capital Partners

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