David Ebrahimzadeh

David Ebrahimzadeh, the President of Corniche Capital, is an expert opportunistic investor who seeks to maximize value creation while mitigating and managing risk effectively. The company’s business focuses on two lines of business: real estate and private equity.

Ebrahimzadeh’s real estate portfolio is mainly centered on the multifamily and industrial sectors. This area provides a great deal of growth and allows for exciting possibilities of expansion. Corniche Capital also acquires properties that have distressed debt, allowing for a great turnaround potential.

Corniche Capital also focuses on private equity. The company has holdings in middle-market companies, later-stage growth investments, and distressed debt. Reaching across many industries, from manufacturing and mining to logistics and distribution, Corniche Capital accumulates these investments and reinvests the profits, strengthening businesses and enhancing their economic potential.

David Ebrahimzadeh’s goal is to make investments in deserving businesses and properties that have a strong potential for growth. Employing a hands-on approach enables him to influence the future of these assets.

Where did the idea for Corniche Capital come from?

The idea for Corniche Capital came from my explorations in the financial world. I saw a clear market need for an investment company that would make a difference in the business world. Taking on a mix of high- and low-risk investments, with a focus on multi-family and industrial real estate, has made our company successful.

What does your typical day look like and how do you make it productive?

I am a believer in keeping a solid daily routine. Of course, there are days when I have to change the playbook, but I think that a routine makes me more productive.

In the morning, I like to exercise before I go to work. This centers me and enables me to think about the challenges of the upcoming day. After I take that important time for myself, I have a few cups of coffee and go to the office.

As the President of Corniche Capital, many of my employees depend on me, so I try to be as reliable as possible. I try to stay open to suggestions from my staff. I believe that sharing information is one of the key elements of running a business.

Frequently I tour new properties that we might want to invest in. It is exciting to see the potential of these properties.

In the evenings, I have tried to take the time to read a book or catch up on current events. This helps me to unwind after a hard day. I often read business books, but I am also interested in history and economics.

How do you bring ideas to life?

I bring ideas to life with the help of my talented staff. I have close colleagues who can bring out the best in me. I try to be open-minded and to let my team approach problems in new ways. I think that having a close relationship with my staff helps them be more creative.

What’s one trend that excites you?

I am excited by the increasing amount of multifamily properties that are being built in suburban communities. In the past, suburban areas have mostly focused on single-family homes. Having a greater market reach will be a huge help for the multifamily real estate industry.

What is one habit of yours that makes you more productive as an entrepreneur?

I always take the time to think over my decisions before committing myself. I don’t believe in allowing myself to be influenced by every trend and whim. I instruct my staff to do their due diligence and vet the opportunity before making the call.

What advice would you give your younger self?

When I was younger, if challenges or problems would arise, they would engulf me and prohibit me from finding a clear path to resolution. While this is an issue that plagues many, I have found that, in the face of problems, stopping and simply breathing for one minute helps to reset your mind and allow a clear head to resolve issues efficiently and expeditiously. I would tell my younger self not to be so focused on the problem and just to stop and breathe, then let a clear mind come up with the solution.

Tell us something that’s true that almost nobody agrees with you on.

Consistency really helps in all business dealings. Many people go from one idea to another, but if you stick to one thing at a time and work on it, the rest will fall into place.

As an entrepreneur, what is the one thing you do over and over and recommend everyone else do?

I always encourage other business owners to empower their staff to make decisions. When staff are empowered, they know that you trust their judgment and they are more likely to make good decisions.

What is one strategy that has helped you grow your business?

We have focused on complex deals that have some hair on them. It is there that we find the most value can be created and the most upside. We have done research into how to determine generally what we are looking for and then we vet the list down to a select few transactions to take to the next level.

What is one failure you had as an entrepreneur, and how did you overcome it?

While my investments have mostly been fruitful, no one can claim that they have never experienced a failure. I once lost money on a deal that should have been solid, but there was information that I was not privy to before making the purchase. Ever since then, I have been doubly sure that my staff has researched every aspect of the property.

What is one business idea that you’re willing to give away to our readers?

I have thought about some business ideas that I probably won’t have the time to put into action. I would be happy to see a concierge business that focused on the basic needs that a busy executive can’t always take care of themselves.

What is the best $100 you recently spent? What and why?

I bought a fitness tracker. This will help me keep track of my steps and encourage me to be more active in my daily life. I have recently dedicated myself to health and fitness after a good friend experienced a medical setback.

What is one piece of software or a web service that helps you be productive?

My business has been using Slack, which is a convenient way to keep in touch. I know that my younger employees have been able to get used to the software easily, but it has been an uphill battle for the rest of us. I am beginning to see the genius in the program.

What is the one book that you recommend our community should read and why?

The business book that I believe everyone should read is The Intelligent Investor by Benjamin Graham. The book explains the principles of “value investing” and lets readers know how they can shield themselves from errors while developing long-term strategies.

What is your favorite quote?

“Play by the rules, but be ferocious.” – Phil Knight

Key Learnings:

• Rely on your staff to bring you the best information. If you can’t trust your staff to act in your best interests, your business will be on shaky footing.
• Always be looking for new business opportunities.
• It is important to take time out for yourself and to focus on your physical and mental well-being.