Wilbur Ross, a former Commerce Secretary and a prominent figure on Wall Street, is set to release his upcoming book entitled “Risks and Returns: Creating Success in Business and Life”. Despite his successful career in finance, Ross revealed that his childhood dream was to become a writer. He reminisced about his time as an undergraduate at Yale, where he participated in courses that aimed to nurture aspiring fiction writers. However, he found himself struggling to keep up with the demand for creative content, ultimately leading him to abandon his aspirations of becoming a writer.
Lessons from Harvard Business School
During his time at Harvard Business School, Ross had the privilege of studying under the renowned instructor Georges Doriot. Doriot, a Frenchman who became an American citizen to serve in World War II, imparted valuable lessons to his students, emphasizing the importance of dressing for success. Ross shared that Doriot encouraged his students to exude success through their attire, a principle that has remained with him throughout his career.
Memories of Living at the Dakota
Ross fondly recalled his time residing at the historic Dakota building in New York City, where he lived for two decades. Known for its illustrious residents such as John Lennon, Leonard Bernstein, and Rudolf Nureyev, the Dakota provided Ross with a unique perspective on living among great artists and musicians. He shared anecdotes about Lennon and Yoko Ono, describing them as gracious and unassuming neighbors who actively participated in building community events.
Encounters with Donald Trump
Ross recounted his initial encounter with former President Donald Trump during a bankruptcy proceeding involving the Trump Taj Mahal. Despite starting off as adversaries in the legal matter, Ross eventually found himself supporting Trump in his presidential campaign, a decision that he stood by even after Trump’s victory. Reflecting on his experiences with Trump, Ross highlighted the resilience and fortitude he observed in the former President during times of adversity.
Following Trump’s election victory, Ross was appointed to the role of Commerce Secretary in the Trump administration. Tasked with overseeing complex operations such as the census, Ross faced significant challenges in managing large-scale hiring initiatives and controversial policy decisions. Despite the controversy surrounding his tenure, Ross remained committed to carrying out his duties to the best of his abilities.
Ross’s upcoming book has garnered praise from notable figures in the business and media world, including Ken Griffin, Stephen A. Schwarzman, and Larry Kudlow. The endorsements highlight Ross’s unique perspective on success and resilience in the face of adversity. As he prepares to share his insights with a wider audience, Ross’s journey serves as a testament to the intersection of business acumen, personal ambition, and enduring relationships in the pursuit of success.