If you've never heard of Richard Parsons then you don't follow business news, you've been living under a rock or both. Mr. Parsons has been in business for many years. But not before getting his start in politics working for Nelson Rockefeller back in 1971. After that stint, he went on to work and became a partner at Patterson, Belknap, Webb and Tyle. From there he's held powerful positions at some of the country's biggest companies. In addition to his impressive business career Richard Parsons is also a wine connoisseur. He along with his wife Laura own a vineyard in Tuscany Italy. Mr. Parsons is also a big supporter of the arts. He is Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Jazz Foundation of America and he is personally restoring and will re-open the legendary Minton's Playhouse. He is one of the most feared and loved business leaders in the world. Known for his calm approach to crisis and hands off management style, he is credited with reversing and cleaning up the AOL-TimeWarner merger, the worst in the history of American business. His connections also run deep in the political world. He's advised former President Bush and also advises President Obama on economic polices. Mr. Parsons also has direct lines into some of Hollywood's biggest stars and players. It is rumored that he will make a run for Mayor of New York City, something he's denied for years. But as they saying goes, people almost always finish where they start and Mr. Parsons did get his start in politics.
Name: Richard D. Parsons
Age: 63 (Born in Brooklyn)
Wife: Laura
Career:
- Intern for New York Governor Nelson Rockefeller
- Aid to President Ford
- Partner at Patterson, Belknap, Webb & Tyler
- Chairman CEO Dime Bank Corp
- President Time Warner
- President COO, Time Warner
- Chairman, CEO Time Warner
- Chairman Citi Group
