Matt Higgins

Matt Higgins is a noted serial entrepreneur and growth equity investor as Cofounder & CEO of private investment firm RSE Ventures. He’s also the Host/Executive Producer of the CNBC series "Business Hunters" and is an Executive Fellow at Harvard Business School, where he co-teaches the course "Moving Beyond Direct-to-Consumer." His first book, "Burn The Boats," was published by Harper Collins William Morrow in 2023. With over 25 years of experience across multiple industries in both the public and private sectors, Higgins draws upon his extensive background to assist founders in navigating complex situations to reach their full potential.

Higgins began his career in public service as a journalist before becoming the youngest mayoral press secretary in New York City at 26, where he managed the global media response to the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. He then became one of the first employees—and ultimately Chief Operating Officer—of the Lower Manhattan Development Corporation, the federally funded government agency created to rebuild the World Trade Center site. He played a pivotal role in organizing the largest international design competition in history, resulting in "Reflecting Absence," the 9/11 National Memorial, and the development of One World Trade Center.

In his expansive career in sports, Higgins spent 15 years in senior leadership positions with National Football League teams. He left a significant mark with two NFL franchises, overseeing revenue functions of the New York Jets as Executive Vice President of Business Operations, and later serving as Vice Chairman of the Miami Dolphins from 2012 to 2021. Higgins cofounded New York City-based RSE Ventures in 2012 alongside developer Stephen M. Ross, securing a multi-billion-dollar investment portfolio that includes leading brands across various sectors. Notable investments include Momofuku, MilkBar, the Drone Racing League, Resy, Bluestone Lane, and VaynerMedia.

RSE Ventures has successfully supported many emerging brands, like RESY, which American Express acquired in 2019, and the Drone Racing League, recognized among Fast Company’s 10 Most Innovative Sports Companies. Higgins' strategic partnership in VaynerMedia has propelled it to significant accolades, including Adweek’s 2022 Breakthrough Media Agency of the Year and a top ranking on Ad Age’s 2022 Agency A-List.

Higgins' effectiveness as a recurring guest Shark on the Emmy award-winning TV show "Shark Tank" during seasons 10 and 11, and his ability to resonate with audiences and communities at events, such as the Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce, have been well acknowledged. In 2019, he received the Ellis Island Medal of Honor for his contributions to society. He remains a dedicated board member of Autism Speaks, advocating for scientific research and greater acceptance of neurodiversity. Mr. Higgins earned his Bachelor of Arts in political science and an honorary doctorate from Queens College, along with a J.D. from Fordham Law, where he was a member of the Fordham Law Review.