Mangrove Partners stands as a prominent name in the investment management sector, renowned for its strategic approach and commitment to delivering robust results. At the heart of Mangrove Partners’ success is its exceptional team of seasoned professionals. This article delves into the backgrounds and expertise of the key individuals who form the leadership and operational backbone of Mangrove Partners, demonstrating the depth of experience that drives the firm’s investment strategies and client success.
The Leadership Core of Mangrove Partners
Leading Mangrove Partners is a team of highly accomplished individuals, each bringing a wealth of experience from across the financial industry.
Nathaniel August, President and Chief Investment Officer, is the founder of Mangrove Partners, established in 2010. His extensive background includes directorship at White Eagle Partners, senior analyst roles at Brahman Capital Partners, and investment analyst positions at K Capital Partners and Goldman Sachs. Mr. August’s leadership and investment acumen, honed since his bachelor’s degree from Brown University, set the strategic direction for Mangrove Partners.
Ward Dietrich, Chief Operating Officer and Chief Compliance Officer, joined Mangrove in 2011, playing a crucial role in the firm’s operational efficiency and regulatory adherence. Prior to Mangrove, Mr. Dietrich was a principal at Madison Capital Management. His dual master’s degrees from Pratt Institute and New York University underpin his expertise in managing complex operational and compliance frameworks.
Investment Team: Senior Analysts and Research Expertise
Mangrove Partners’ investment prowess is driven by a team of highly skilled analysts with diverse backgrounds and deep industry knowledge.
Philip Lee, Executive Managing Director, Senior Analyst, joined in 2011 and brings a rich history in investment analysis. His prior experience includes senior analyst roles at Brightpoint Capital Partners, investment analyst positions at Overland Park Capital and Brahman, and an investment associate role at Citadel Investment Group. Mr. Lee’s analytical skills, developed since his bachelor’s degree from the University of Pennsylvania, are invaluable to Mangrove Partners’ investment strategies.
Cameron Ross, Senior Managing Director, Director of Research, joined in 2015 and leads the research efforts at Mangrove Partners. His background as an investment banking analyst at Credit Suisse provides a strong foundation for his research leadership. Mr. Ross’s academic grounding from Columbia University enhances his ability to direct insightful and impactful research initiatives.
The team of Senior Analysts is further strengthened by:
- Steve Schembri, Senior Analyst, who joined in 2022, bringing experience as a partner and head of research at Marble Ridge and analyst roles at Glade Brook, Highland Capital, and Wachovia Securities. His dual degrees from Arizona State University and the University of Pennsylvania enrich his analytical perspective.
- Ryan Polisi, Senior Analyst, also joining in 2022, with a robust background as a managing director at York Capital Management, principal at Realm Partners, and associate at Lehman Brothers. His education from Yale University complements his extensive experience in financial markets.
Jawaad Mahmood, Head of Quantitative Investments (joined May 2024), enhances Mangrove Partners’ capabilities in quantitative strategies. His prior experience includes consulting services to investment firms, portfolio management at Systematic Research Advisors, and a senior quantitative associate role at Ziff Brother’s Investments. His multiple bachelor’s degrees from the University of Pennsylvania underscore his quantitative expertise.
The Investment Analyst team at Mangrove Partners includes:
- Patrick Manning, Investment Analyst (joined May 2023), previously a research analyst at 801 West Capital. His master’s degree from Columbia Business School and bachelor’s from Oregon State University provide a strong foundation for his analytical role.
- Tiffany Marchell, Investment Analyst (joined December 2023), bringing a unique perspective with her background as a biotechnology equity research associate at William Blair and gene therapy technician at Weill Cornell Medical College. Dr. Marchell’s doctorate in immunology from the University of Chicago and biochemistry degree from Vassar College adds significant depth to the team’s diverse expertise, particularly in sectors requiring scientific understanding.
- Jim Tse, Investment Analyst (joined May 2024), with prior experience as a private equity associate at Apollo Global Management and investment banking analyst at Moelis & Company. His bachelor’s degree from the University of Pennsylvania equips him for rigorous financial analysis.
- Alex Warmath, Investment Analyst (joined September 2024), formerly an analyst at Analysis Group. His bachelor’s degree from the University of Chicago supports his analytical contributions to the team.
Investor Relations, Operations, and Financial Management
A strong support structure is crucial for any successful investment firm. Mangrove Partners benefits from a highly competent team managing investor relations, operations, and financial controls.
Jessica Cass, Head of Investor Relations (joined May 2023), leads investor communications and relationships. Her extensive background includes COO at SomeraRoad, Director of Investor Relations at Jones Road Capital Management, and investor relations roles at Gruss Capital Management. Ms. Cass’s degree from Georgetown University underpins her expertise in managing crucial investor partnerships.
Financial and operational aspects are expertly managed by:
- Sean Holloway, Controller (joined June 2021), a licensed CPA, previously Director of Finance at Quest Partners, Controller roles at Aidennlair Capital Management and LionEye Capital Management, and an Assistant Vice President at Citi Hedge Fund Services. His degree from The Ohio State University and CPA certification demonstrate his strong financial management skills.
- Ryan Casey, Trader (joined June 2018), responsible for trading operations, with prior experience as a trader at Stelliam Investment Management, equity sales-trader at Wolfe Research Securities, and trader roles at AIG Advisor Group and Cohen & Company Securities. His degree from Syracuse University supports his expertise in trading and market operations.
- Feng Li, Assistant Controller (joined July 2018), a licensed CPA, previously a tax associate at RSM US LLP. Her master’s and bachelor’s degrees from Baruch College and CPA license enhance her capabilities in financial control and accounting.
- Ben Ling, Assistant Controller (joined July 2024), also a licensed CPA, formerly an assistant controller at P. Schoenfeld Asset Management, controller at Bloom Tree Partners, and financial controls manager at Sculptor Capital Management. His degree from Hofstra University and CPA credentials strengthen the financial management team.
- Andrew Rollins, Assistant Trader and Operations Associate (joined May 2022), with operations experience from Clearfield Capital Management and fund accounting roles at Highline Capital Management and SEI Investments. His degree from the University of Arizona is foundational to his operational expertise.
- Joel Friedman, Senior Accountant (joined July 2023), previously a senior audit associate at KPMG. His degree from Touro University and audit experience at KPMG ensure rigorous accounting practices.
- Brigida Vanegas, Office Manager (joined June 2022), manages office operations, with prior administrative roles at GGCP, Owl Creek, and Point 72. Her degree from Mercy College underpins her organizational and administrative skills.
Conclusion
The team at Mangrove Partners represents a powerful combination of diverse expertise, deep industry experience, and strong academic backgrounds. From leadership to investment analysis, investor relations, and operations, each member contributes to the firm’s overall success. This dedicated and highly qualified team is a cornerstone of Mangrove Partners’ ability to navigate the complexities of the investment landscape and deliver value to its partners and clients.
