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Rick Stern
CEO Nitel, YPO, HBS OPM 38, USNR Vet, Mercy Home Board, UF DLC, Gator, Martial Artist, Philanthropist, Cancer Survivor
Rick Stern is an experienced entrepreneur and business leader who founded Nitel, a technology services company, in 1997.13 He served as the CEO of Nitel for 25 years, from February 1997 to January 2022.1 Under his leadership, Nitel became a 9-time Inc. 500/5000 honoree and a 10-time Best & Brightest places to work winner.1
Key aspects of Rick Stern's career and achievements include:
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Education: He holds a Bachelor of Science in Telecommunications from the University of Florida College of Journalism and Communications (1987-1990) and completed Harvard Business School's Executive Education program in Owner/President Management (2007-2009).13
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Military service: Stern served as a Boatswains Mate 2nd Class Petty Officer in the US Navy Reserve from May 1986 to May 1992.1
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Professional experience: Prior to founding Nitel, he worked for companies such as Sprint, WorldCom, and Universal Access in various sales and management roles.1
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Awards and recognition:
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Current roles: As of February 2025, Stern is the CEO and Founder of Stern Recruiting, a position he has held since January 2023.1 He is also involved in private equity investing and entrepreneurship.1
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Personal interests: Stern is a martial artist, holding various ranks in different disciplines, including a Black Belt in Goju Karate and a Purple Belt in BJJ.1
In November 2021, it was announced that Cinven, a private equity firm, had made an investment in Nitel.2 Following this investment, in January 2022, Stern transitioned from his role as CEO to become a board observer while remaining an investor in the business.45


