MY DIGITAL BIO

**This is actually a huge board of switches, by Valentin Ruhry

in Newport, RI

JOE BIRISH

WHO AM I?

I solve business problems

A perpetual student of business

• In both the practical and academic sense

Currently studying at the University of Massachusetts Amherst

• Master of Business Administration; candidate, May 2014• Master of Science in Accounting; candidate, May 2014

ANY PARTICULAR AREAS?

The areas I most enjoy in business are:

Risk Management

• Trying to mitigate potential problems

Finance and Accounting

• How to afford the goals of the business

Operations

• How to accomplish these goals efficiently

BUT WHY BUSINESS?

New challenges every day!

• I enjoy:• Problem solving• Asking “What if?”• Helping others overcome challenges

Business challenges you to look for tomorrow’s problems while solving today’s

I PLAY DEVIL’S ADVOCATE

Asking questions and challenging ideas:

• Helps ensure the best course of action• Looks for potential problems• Discovers new opportunities• Asking “Why” ensures project is aligned with goals• Asking “Is there a better way?” ensures processes are

efficient

HOW DID I LEARN THIS?

Past problem solving careers

• IT support – desktop, application, and network support• Automotive mechanic

Academics

• Undergraduate coursework• BS in Business Administration

• Concentration in Finance• Minor in Accounting

• Graduate coursework

CERTIFICATION PLANS

I plan on pursuing a variety of industry certifications after graduation:

• Certified Risk Manager (CRM)• Certified Public Accountant (CPA)• Six Sigma• Other

OUTSIDE OF BUSINESS

Some of my hobbies include:

• Photography• I first started with photography as a way to “not be in the

picture” and found that I enjoy it

• Hiking• Great way to disconnect and unwind• First started hiking while in the Boy Scouts

NOW WHAT?

Contact me!

• www.linkedin.com/in/josephbirish• I look forward to working together in overcoming your

business obstacles.