Matt Higgins
Matt Higgins is a proven operator, investor and business builder with a knack for helping founders at pivotal growth moments achieve breakout success. He is a noted serial entrepreneur and growth equity investor with over 25 years of deep operating experience across multiple industries. Higgins is the Co-Founder and CEO of RSE Ventures, a private firm that incubates and invests in companies across sports and entertainment, food and lifestyle, media and marketing, and technology. He is also an Executive Fellow at Harvard Business School, where he co-teaches the course Moving Beyond DTC, and Co-Owner of VaynerMedia, the largest social-media first agency in the world founded by Gary Vaynerchuk. Prior to RSE, he spent 15 years in senior leadership positions with National Football League teams, most recently as Vice Chairman of the Miami Dolphins. He also served as Vice President of Business Operations at the New York Jets, where he transformed the team’s profile via social media and non-traditional brand extensions. Higgins’ reputation as a self-made serial entrepreneur earned him a spot as a guest shark on Emmy award-winning TV show “Shark Tank” during seasons 10 and 11.
Matt Higgins Professional Experience / Academic History
Professional Experience
-
Co-Founder and CEO
Academic History
-
J.D., Law
-
B.S., Political Science and Government
CURRENT AFFILIATIONS
Co-Founder and CEO, RSE Ventures
Co-Founder, Relevant Sports
Executive Fellow, Harvard Business School
Author, HarperCollins
Board Member, Bluestone Lane
Board Member, &pizza
Board Member, Momofuku Milk Bar
Board Member, Autism Speaks
Under his leadership, RSE has several successful companies including Derris & Company and Catalyst Media.
In 2016, he broadened RSE’s investment focus to rapidly expanding fine dining and fast casual concepts.
He led the company in investing in NYC's iconic Magnolia Bakery, David Chang’s Momofuku and Fuku, Milk Bar, &pizza and Bluestone Lane.
He also led RSE's foray into cybersecurity with the acquisition of SkOUT, a leading cyber company for small and midsized businesses.
CAREER & EXPERTISE
Higgins is a prolific investor in the direct-to-consumer space, having invested in over 100 DTC brands throughout his career.
He began his career as the youngest press secretary in New York City history, where he helped manage the global press response during 9/11.
He made his mark with two NFL franchises, overseeing the revenue functions of the New York Jets as Executive Vice President of Business Operations.
Before joining the Jets, he served as COO of the Lower Manhattan Development Corporation, responsible for helping lead the rebuilding effort for the World Trade Center site.
He is also a longstanding board member of Autism Speaks, advocating for scientific research and greater acceptance of neurodiversity.
MEDIA & APPEARANCES
Higgins has appeared in various leading media outlets and publications.
He has been featured at CNBC, ABC, Entrepreneur, and Inc., among others.