Greg Warnock

Co-Founder, Managing Director at Mercato Partners

Greg Warnock is an entrepreneur, investor, and mentor with over forty years of experience in starting, growing, and advising businesses across a range of industries. He is the co-founder and managing director of a growth capital firm that helps expansion-stage companies achieve accelerated growth and scale. Through a structured approach centered on operational leadership, disciplined governance, and value creation through strong networks, he works closely with leadership teams to refine go-to-market strategies, strengthen executive functions, and pursue new market opportunities. The firm’s portfolio spans technology, healthcare, consumer services, and other high-growth sectors, with over $5 billion in exits reported through 2020.

Greg also co-founded a buyout and growth platform focused on the food and beverage sector. This platform supports emerging restaurant brands by offering operational guidance, strategic capital use, and access to a broad ecosystem of experienced operators. Under his leadership, the platform has played a key role in the growth of several of the country's fastest-scaling restaurant concepts. It focuses on improving unit economics, expanding multi-location operations, optimizing site selection, refining supply chain strategy, and protecting company culture during periods of fast growth. The platform has become a leading force in helping early-stage restaurant brands scale profitably across the U.S.

Earlier in his investment career, Greg co-founded a venture capital firm focused on early-stage companies in information technology and life sciences. As managing director, he helped establish the firm as a prominent early-stage investor in its region. The firm supported innovative startups and provided hands-on guidance to founders during their growth journeys. It later merged with another investment group, continuing its early-stage focus under a new identity.

He also has experience in public markets. He served as the chairman and CEO of a publicly traded special-purpose acquisition company that went public in 2023. Under his leadership, the company completed a business combination with a SaaS-focused Brazilian organization. This transaction expanded his global investment presence and demonstrated his ability to lead complex public-market transactions with cross-border components.

Founding Businesses and M&A Experience

Before shifting into venture and growth investing, he spent the early part of his career founding and leading businesses in technology, biotechnology, marketing, and consumer products. Frequently acting as a technologist and founder, he led product development, built teams, and guided companies from concept to commercial traction.

Greg also played a principal role in more than 20 mergers and acquisitions. These transactions provided deep experience in market evaluation, deal structuring, and managing businesses through growth, change, and successful exits.

Entrepreneurship Education and Mentorship

In 2008, he launched an initiative focused on entrepreneurship education, designed to support aspiring founders with the resources, mentorship, and practical knowledge needed to build and scale companies. Through this program, he has mentored numerous entrepreneurs and demonstrated ongoing dedication to strengthening the startup community.

Philanthropy and Community Leadership

Greg co-founded and served as the chairman of a foundation dedicated to promoting philanthropy throughout the state. His involvement has supported causes in education, entrepreneurship, and community development. He has helped connect donors with impactful initiatives that deliver long-term value to local communities.

Education

He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science from the University of Utah. He later completed a Master’s degree in Human Resources Management and a PhD in Entrepreneurship and Venture Finance from the same institution’s business school. His academic background supports his professional experience, providing a strong foundation in venture finance, leadership development, and entrepreneurial strategy.

Awards and Recognition

Throughout his career, he has been recognized for his leadership and contributions to the business community. His awards include Mentor of the Year, an entrepreneurship recognition from a global firm, and inclusion among the state’s top business directors.

Personal Interests

Outside of work, he has a strong interest in motorsports and outdoor activities. He collects and restores muscle cars, races, and is a licensed pilot. His other interests include boating, motorcycling, and paragliding. These hobbies reflect his passion for precision, focus, and performance values he brings to both his personal and professional life.

Greg Warnock continues to guide businesses, support entrepreneurs, and contribute to initiatives that drive growth, innovation, and community impact.