For over 25 years Mr. Cella has been providing exceptional financial and business development consultant service to businesses in the U.S and abroad. The range of companies that he has provided his services include new start-ups to Fortune 100 companies like General Instrument Corporation and Northrop Grumman Corporation. Some of the less conventional areas where Gary Cella has been involved include assisting in building forensic laboratories through out Latin America and helping arrange the purchase of 20 MIG-29 high performance aircrafts from the government of Moldova by the United Sates Pentagon.
Gary, tell us about your business. How would you describe it?
I primarily do two things, first I invest in companies that have what I consider a social conscience and second I help restructure companies that have somehow lost their way.
What led you to this business?
I managed a small medical hedge fund and I saw so many good ideas get tripped up before execution.
Were you ever influenced by other entrepreneurs?
Yes, I’ve been blessed to meet so many smart people that taught me years ago success is not judged simply by the amount of money you have….but what you do with it.
What is the most challenging part of your work?
Determining what’s doable and what is not
What was your most rewarding professional experience?
They’ve been more than a few but they generally will fall in the category of helping get some product needed to the marketplace
What do you have your sights set on next?
I’m involved in a not for profit that connects different people in different religions in conjunction with the Vatican.
How is your day in your life Gary?
Happy, busy, I try not to waste time and get the most out of the day
Choose two of your favorite quotes and write them here?
Sure, from my Navy days “You want an easy day that was yesterday… today’s a hard day” and “Character is judged by what you do when no one is watching” by John Wooden
Any hobbies?
Martial arts and restoring old cars
What makes you smile?
Two old people holding hands.
What is your secret talent?
I can cook really good!
What are you never without?
My wedding ring
What historic figure do you most admire?
Chuck Yeager first pilot to break the sound Barrier
What scares you?
Losing good friends and family
What’s your favorite vacation spot?
Venice, Italy
“Best-kept secrets” (websites, places, etc) you’d recommend, and why?
If you have time, join the volunteer fire department. You will meet some truly amazing giving people.
What are three life memories you recall most frequently?
Any trip to Europe with family because it’s such an amazing place with so many things to do, and the Smithsonian Institute in Washington DC another incredible place that never gets old and my daughters becoming the youngest 3rd° black belt in the state of Connecticut.
Anything else you’d like to add?
I don’t recall who said it but I think the quote is “A person remembered is never gone” …which to me translates to make a difference in a positive way while you can.
Mr. Cella was either the founder or senior partner of two public companies that were in the health care field. Both companies were acquired by other organizations.
Mr. Cella was recognized for his excellence in work with both private and public companies so years back by the Economic Development Board where he assisted in restructuring investments in order to recoup losses.
With respect to his field of expertise Mr. Cella has appeared on nationally syndicated television and radio programs including CNN and CNBC, as well as in major newspapers such as The New York Post, The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and others. Since 1995 Mr. Cella has provided services to Virtual Defense and Development International, an international consulting service staffed by retired CIA and FBI senior officers.
Outside of finance, Mr. Cella has offered his services to the church council of Saint Mary’s in Greenwich, The Cos Cob Fire Department, and the Civil Air Patrol. Mr. Cella is a Navy Reservist and author.