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Michael Ferro

Chairman at Merrick Ventures

Michael W. Ferro, Jr. is a prominent figure in the tech and media industries, serving as the Chairman and CEO of Merrick Ventures, an esteemed venture capital and private equity firm based in Chicago. With a strong focus on big data, deep learning, and content aggregation technologies, Ferro has played a pivotal role in the founding and development of various successful technology companies like Click Commerce, Higi, and Wrapports.

Under his leadership, Merrick Ventures became the largest shareholder of tronc, Inc. (formerly Tribune Publishing) in 2016, with Ferro assuming the role of Chairman. This strategic move allowed him to oversee renowned media brands such as the Los Angeles Times, Chicago Tribune, and others. Ferro's influence extended to the healthcare sector, where he served as Chairman of NASDAQ company Merge Healthcare, guiding it to a significant acquisition by IBM.

Known as the 'Father of the Extranet,' Ferro's early venture, Click Commerce, revolutionized internet software with its groundbreaking design, shaping the landscape of internet portals. Beyond his professional endeavors, Ferro is actively involved in various philanthropic initiatives, holding positions such as Chairman of the Chicago Community Trust and serving on the boards of prestigious institutions like Northwestern University and the Museum of Science and Industry.

Ferro's contributions have been widely recognized, earning him accolades such as inclusion in Forbes' 'Tech's 100 Highest Rollers' list, the National Young Entrepreneur of the Year award, and an Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year in Technology honor. His talents also extend to the realm of entertainment, as highlighted by his Emmy award-winning production work on 'The Bay' and his Emmy-nominated documentary, 'Life Itself.'

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Location

Greater Chicago Area