ABOUT RICH
Legacy of Leadership With Soul
Rich McDonald’s storied 25 year career as Fender’s inspirational and charismatic product visionary is well documented. He has long been venerated as the modern-day Heart and Soul of one of America’s most symbolic and iconic brands. His career accolades include induction into the Music and Sound Retailer’s Hall Of Fame, member of the esteemed NAMM Board of Directors and recipient of the trade's Lifetime Achievement Award.
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His journey to the C-Suite of the legendary, multi-national company, however, would offer a host of challenges and require a versatile, energetic and purposeful approach.
After years working as a recording and touring musician Rich found himself at a crossroads. Should he continue to pursue his musical vision despite the fatigue of life on the road, or was it time to make a change? The question was answered by an entry level opportunity at Fender Musical Instruments, the maker of his life-long guitar of choice.
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Although the position in the Small Parts Department represented a significant financial set back, Rich saw a unique opportunity. His intentional approach, creativity, interpersonal IQ and willingness to reinvent ignited and fueled his career progression.
His approach earned him ten leadership promotions in a twenty year period and inspired Rich to write and publish the inspirational career growth guide Rock Your Gig and Get Promoted.
Today Rich is a popular strategic advisor, career coach, author and speaker. His passion and expertise is helping individuals, teams and organizations to reinvent, evolve and grow.
Rich calls the Arizona desert home with wife Lisa and their two children. In his free time Rich pursues his passion for family, music and tennis.
Neil P. Patel CPA
Strategic Advisor
Neil’s interest in the mechanics of business started early and was influenced by his entrepreneurial family of operators and investors. After graduating from Chicago’s esteemed Loyola University, Neil worked for public and private enterprises affording him invaluable insight and experience into the finance, operations and management functions of businesses in multiple industries.
Neil launched his practice in 1999. And for nearly 25 years, he has advised hundreds of diverse businesses providing him a uniquely wide scope of real-world, hands on experience. As a result, he understands first hand the challenges and opportunities business leaders face today.
His professional mission has been focused on helping clients navigate today’s complex business environment, increase productivity and grow. Neil is best known for his perspectives on financial leadership. In this capacity, Neil is able to help accounting and finance teams understand and implement processes and effectively communicate the meaningful reporting that transforms data into decisions.
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In doing so, Neil is able to help business leaders increase their intimacy and visibility, reduce stress, and find professional and personal fulfillment.
Outside of the office, Neil enjoys hiking, camping, traveling, spending time with friends and family and spoiling his chocolate lab, Lily.
