My First Job: David Straus

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November 2, 2007

My First Job: David Straus

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David Straus

Now: President and CEO

Then: Sales clerk

Current position: President and CEO of Fortune Bank, a new locally owned bank in downtown Seattle

First job: At age 12 or 13, I started as a sales clerk and shipping clerk at Straus-Bodenheimer Company, a family-owned business located in Houston, Texas. Straus-Bodenheimer Company was a wholesaler of appliances and a manufacturer of saddles.

What I learned: I learned about the culture of a small, family-owned business. My grandfather, father and uncle all worked in the business. I remember that many of the employees were like extended family to us. The credit manager looked at extensions of credit, taking character, not just financial strength, into consideration when approving credit. I remember going over loan documents with my grandfather who reviewed every word. I learned more about business there than I did in my MBA program.

Want to tell us about your first job? E-mail business@seattletimes.com

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