Welcome our New Business Consultant, Jeff Dereume!
With the growing demand in our region, and to best support our business environment, Jeff will be responsible for specialized consulting with small business clients, providing guidance and recommendations toward business financing institutions and other referral sources, and providing written recommendations for improving the performance of the client’s business. Jeff will primarily work closely with the Lawrence County Regional Chamber of Commerce/Lawrence County Economic Development Corporation to support the growth in the region.
A native of Punxsutawney Pennsylvania, Jeff comes to the group with an extensive background in budgeting, small business development, project management, financial analysis, capital planning, and forecasting. Jeff holds a bachelor’s degree from the Indiana University of Pennsylvania, a master’s degree from Colorado State University, and an MBA from Robert Morris University. With a career that has spanned from large corporations to private equity startups, he has more than 15 years of experience in business planning and technical roles.
Initially trained as a geologist, Jeff began his career in oil and natural gas development in eastern Kentucky, southwestern Pennsylvania, and northern West Virginia. After earning an MBA, he shifted to focus primarily on corporate mergers and acquisitions, capital budgeting, and operations scheduling. More recently, Jeff consulted with bars, restaurants, and beer distributors during the pandemic to navigate business acquisitions and divestitures, contract negotiations, and bank financing.
Jeff looks forward to employing his business expertise to tactically serve current and prospective business owners throughout Pennsylvania. "One of the most profound relizations I've had in my careeer is the satisfaction that comes through helping others succeed. I'm excited to carry that forward in my role with the Duquesne Univeristy Small Business Development Center."
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