Drew Doscher
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Drew Doscher is a finance professional with over 30 years of experience on Wall Street. He is renowned for his expertise in distressed debt and the credit market. His career is marked by pivotal roles at top firms such as Lehman Brothers, UBS, Barclays, and Jefferies, where he has significantly contributed to transforming small companies into successful enterprises. Doscher’s ability to turn complex financial challenges into opportunities has solidified his reputation as a leading figure in the financial industry.
From Stuyvesant Town to Wall Street Titan
Originally from Stuyvesant Town, New York, Drew envisioned a law enforcement career. However, after graduating from the College of Holy Cross in 1991, he unexpectedly entered the world of finance. Starting in a back-office role at a financial firm, his sharp acumen and drive quickly propelled him to more strategic positions on the trading floor.
Formative Years in Finance
Drew’s early years in the financial sector were shaped by his time at Oppenheimer & Co., where Jon Bauer, a notable expert in distressed bonds and loans, mentored him. This experience provided him with a robust foundation in the nuances of the distressed debt market. In 1995, Drew joined Lehman Brothers, where he continued to refine his skills and deepen his industry knowledge under the guidance of seasoned professionals.
Expanding Global Influence
In 2001, Drew made a significant career move to UBS, where he was tasked with creating a global distressed trading business. His successful implementation of this division significantly enhanced UBS’s presence in the distressed markets across the U.S. and Europe, establishing the firm as a key player in these sectors.
Strategic Leadership at Barclays
After a brief hiatus, Drew joined Barclays in 2006. As a managing director, he developed a global distressed debt operation, broadening the firm’s reach and influence in international markets. His strategic foresight and leadership during this period were crucial in positioning Barclays as a leader in global finance.
Transformative Impact at Seaport Group
The financial crisis of 2008 led to a significant shift in the banking industry’s approach to proprietary trading. In 2009, Drew leveraged this shift as an opportunity to join the Seaport Group, a then-modest firm with only 40 employees. Under his leadership, the firm was transformed into Seaport Global, a full-service financial company. Drew’s efforts helped expand the business into Europe and grow the team to over 100 people, with revenues increasing from under $25 million to $125 million.
Rebuilding Trust at Jefferies
Drew Doscher's success at Seaport Global drew the attention of Jefferies, a firm recovering from a scandal. He was recruited to rebuild its reputation, a task he approached by assembling a new team and overhauling operations to restore integrity and trust. His commitment to ethical practices was highlighted when he offered to resign to protect his squad from downsizing.
Innovative Approaches at BTIG and StoneX
In 2017, Drew joined BTIG to build a credit business from scratch, marking the firm’s first foray into the credit market. He established and expanded the company into Europe, making BTIG a notable player in these markets. Subsequently, at StoneX, he replicated this success by developing a credible credit business, which helped diversify the firm’s operations and enhanced its market presence.
Navigating Financial Crises and Restructurings
Throughout his career, Drew has managed several high-profile financial restructurings and crises involving major corporations like Enron, WorldCom, and Lehman Brothers. His adeptness at navigating these complex situations showcases his profound understanding and capability to handle financial turmoil.
Ethical Leadership and Community Contributions
Known for his integrity in a challenging industry, Drew has earned the reputation of “the honest guy in a dishonest business.” His straightforward dealings with clients and transparent approach during difficult times, such as the Barclays-Lehman merger, further cemented his status as a principal leader. Beyond his professional achievements, Drew has actively contributed to community service, notably being honored for his efforts in restoring the Montauk Playhouse at the “Diamond in the Rough” Gala.
Drew Doscher’s career is a testament to his significant impact on the financial industry, which is characterized by strategic innovation, ethical leadership, and a commitment to community engagement. His journey from an aspiring law enforcement officer to a respected finance professional underscores his adaptability and deep understanding of the complexities of Wall Street.