Entrepreneur of the Year Nominee
Robin Richards
Chairman and CEO, NTI Group, Inc.
Sherman Oaks - CA US
Robin Richards, Chairman and CEO of The NTI Group, Inc. (NTI), is a proven, successful entrepreneur. His leadership has fueled NTI’s meteoric rise to prominence as the most frequently used emergency notification service. Prior to NTI, he served as CEO of Vivendi Universal Net USA; Founding President, COO, and Chairman of the Board of MP3.com, Inc.; Managing Director of Tickets.com, Inc.; Founder, President, and CEO of Lexi International; and appeared on two Inc. 500 Fastest Growing Companies listings.
NTI assists city, school and campus leaders to communicate quickly and efficiently via rapid voice and text messaging to recipients’ cell phones, landlines, email accounts, PDAs, and TTY/TDD devices.
Under Robin’s leadership, within two years, NTI experienced a 577% increase in absolute revenue growth. In the past 12 months, NTI has sent over 200 million voice messages for government and educational leaders, up from 11 million in 2004 on top of millions of text messages sent as part of its multi-modal communication package.
NTI’s Connect-ED® service currently serves one in every six students enrolled in US K-12 public schools. Additionally, the Connect-ED for Higher ED and Connect-CTY® services each have experienced an over 300% increase in recipients served in 2007 alone.
Comments
Robin was right over 7 years ago about the need to understand what is happening in the digital music world. Now, Steve Jobs and the head of EMI are saying what he was saying then. He has been a leader in bringing technology forward in the area of alerting. Unfortunately, it takes a tragedy like the shootings at Va Tech to get the general public to understand the need.
Billy Pitts - Arlington, VAI started working at The NTI Group, Inc.in March 2006,this is the best company I've ever worked for and the best job I've ever had. A big part of what makes The NTI Group,Inc. a great company is a direct result of Robin's leadership.
Anri Khachatorian - North Hollywod, CAI know him, and he's an extraordinary man. Worth mentioning is his charitable works, which he approaches with the same entrepreneurial accumen, like the Chase Foundation, which addresses the social, emotional, and developmental needs of children dealing with the stress of illness and hospitalization, by providing nurturing place where kids can be kids, and forget for a moment about being patients.
Chris English - South Pasadena, CAFantastic.
Joshua Roth - Los Angeles, CAA brilliant tactician.
tom viscount - santa monica, caHis leadership and vision for the company has been phenominal! Regardless of his accomplishments, he is still humble and very approachable
Ginger - Santa Clarita, CAAs an entrepreneur who has come in contact with Robin, I was very impressed by his willingness to help out someone whom he had just met. He has provided leadership, and has in many instances tried to make connections to help our company grow. For such a busy person, this level of support was completely unexpected.
Brandon - Houston, TXRobin has done a fantastic job of growing NTI into the market leader it is today, while simultaneously capturing a national profile for the company that is more commensurate with much older and larger businesses. He has developed an invaluable service offering for his customers, a compelling business model for his investors, and an exciting fast-paced career track for his employees.
John Joliet, Managing Director, UBS Investment Bank - Los Angeles, CAI know Mr. Richards and have been fortunate to work with him and with NTI. He is, without question, an extraordinary person and an extraordinary (and serially successful) entrepreneur: he is thoughtful, focused, and self-effacing. Not content to rest of the success of his MP3 experience, he continues to search for new markets and opportunities, bringing unique services and great value to his clients, and creating create value for his investors.
Kenneth Green - Sherman Oaks, CAA kind and generous person, he meets no stranger and his personality is so electric, you like him immediately.
Dana Strawitz - Glendale, CARobin is not only a successful entrepreneur, but an outstanding leader. He has a clear sense of mission and is focused in his pursuit for the NTI Group, Inc. to be the best company and that offers the best service and products in the field of communication. He clearly articulates his vision and energizes others to follow his leadership and direction. He has certainly earned this recognition.
Elfreda Massie - Bowie, MarylandI have been fortunate enough, through mutual business relations, to have had the opportunity to pick Robin's brain about various business issues that I have encountered over the years in my own career. I have found him to be honest and generous with his opinion and he's been right on with the advice he's given me. He embodies the true spirit of entrepreneurialism.
anonymous - Los Angeles, CAI have worked for Robin for several years. He always performs. More important, however, is that he gets us to accomplish more than we ever imagined we could - as a team as well as individually. He deserves this award.
Natasha Rabe - Sherman Oaks, CARobin Richardd is an outstanding visionary in the areas of business and technology. His foresight has created new businesses and markets where none existed previously and have helped our society to expand with new possibilities. The work Robin has done at The NTI Group with the Connect family of products the paradigm of leaders' communication with their communities and improves the safety of all.
Shannon Meadows - Los Angeles, CAOutstanding!
Trish Stidham - Manassas, VAThe list of companies Mr. Richards has been associated with speaks for itself.
-Robin's focus and dedication is aligned with his mission in life; to make a contribution to the safety and security of others and to be a pioneer in going boldly where no one has gone before to change lives and save lives. NTI embodies his mission, his personal genius, and its success is a reflection of his professionalism and humanity.
Judy Frank - Los Angeles, CA.I think the NTI Group is a great tool not only for our childs education but as well as City and State use. Thanks Mr. Richards!
Mr. Vanderlip - Studio City, CAI am working at NTI group for two years. Robin does not like any CEO in all my previous company. He is very down to the earth, just like a guy who sit next to your cube. And he makes the company so successful in a such short term. We are very proud of being part of his team.
Bing Mu - Sherman Oaks, CAhe's not a business man...he's a BUSINESS, man
billy - west bloomfield, miRobin, as he has done in the past, has established NTI as a market leader in a developing sector. The rapid adoption rate of NTI's product offering is the result of Robin and his team's energetic selling efforts. Robin is the definition of entrepreneur.
Matthew Spain - Los Angeles, CAAs Robin's first business partner some 20 years ago, I have always described him as "that rare person who can see beyond the horizon and create a business to fulfill the needs of the future." Robin is a true visionary and I'm proud to join up with him again during the launch and continued growth of The NTI Group and family of Connect services. His vision has changed the way schools nationwide now communicate with parents in this world of mobility and multiple communication challenges. The same is now taking place with our local government and universities. Above all, Robin is honest, loyal and a person that honors a hand-shake as if it were an iron clad contract. Those are qualities too often lost in today’s competitive business environment.
John Schmitt - Asheville, NCNot only is Robin an Entrepreneur himself, through his leadership and inspiration, many of his former employees have been “bitten by the bug” and started their own companies. Robin is a visionary that can take an idea, see the value and own the market before others know it has happened. Robin has many strengths as an entrepreneur, however, building the right team at the right time for the business is an extraordinary talent.
Laura Carroll - Manhattan Beach, CAMany Entrepreneurs are motivated by financial success, power or control. Mr. Richards has a unique approach, view and use of his success. I believe his success enables him to be philanthropic in support of the nation's most precious resource...OUR CHILDREN!
Charles T. Thompson, Chief Information Officer - Phoenix, ArizonaKnown Robin for 35 years. Always knew where to be and how to become successful. A great leader, innovator and has developed in to an extrodinary strategic thinker yet retains a strong entrepreneurial spirt. A proven winner on every level.
Robert Schostak - Bloomfield Hills MichiganRobin contiues to develop businesses that create a positive value to the marketplace.
Brendan Cotter - Acton, MARobin Richards has definitely made an excellent contribution to this world and assisted in bettering the lives of many.
Sherrill Kulp - Grass Valley, CA~Robin Richards An exceptional CEO with visionary leadership; who possess great integrity and delivers superior results. Proud Employee
Darius Williams - North Hollywood, CARobin's companies have had extraordinary impacts on numerous industries and communities -- in the U.S. and abroad. He is a remarkable leader who attracts similarly outstanding employees to his companies. Not only is he talented but he is charismatic and engaging, and he inspires confidence (and investments!) in his organizations. Wherever he turns his attention, remarkable changes happens in that industry. He truly deserves the Entrepreneur of the Year Award.
Louis Fox - Bozeman, MTAs an employee of Mr. Richards, I can say that he exudes leadership and positive character. Not a day goes by where he doesnt take time to say hello to everyone or make himself involved in every aspect of daily business. He has created a fun, ,efficient and communal atmosphere to work in.
Brian - sherman oaks, caI think that the service that this company provides is priceless to parents and school administrators needing to keep up on the ongoings at school and in the community! Good Job To Robin and the NTI team, Keep up the good work!
Maisha Hudson - Los Angeles, CAAs an administrator in a large school district I have used the system often. It is one of the best communication systems I have ever used. Fast, accurate and dependable. Kudos to Robin for his creativity, skill and putting together an outstanding work force.
john rabe - Sacramento, Ca.Please correct my rating as I misread the rating
john rabe - sacramento, caRobin is a dynamic leader who has unsurpassed loyalty from his team. Robin is the best salesman I have ever worked with and has the proven ability to create whole new industries and markets as he did at Lexi International, Tickets.com, MP3.com and not NTI Group.
robert michalik - new york, nyI have two very close friends that previously worked for me and they now work for NTI. They cannot say enough good about working for this company based on the success and leadership skills displayed by Robin Richards. He has clearly raised the bar on company growth while also focusing on the happiness and success of his employees.
Jean Abate - Hampstead, NHIncredible, he is not only making money but bringing a huge service to the US.
Vic Otero - Acton, MAI have worked in Customer Service for Fortune 500 Corporation all of my career (and I'm not a Spring chicken), and it has by far been a "breath of fresh air" in todays Call Center World to finally have found what I would categorize as the "perfect" CEO in relation to what I "do". Robin Richards just "gets it". Finally, a CEO who recognizes the true value of providing patient, intelligent, professional client care vs. Customer Service and how that positively impacts the bottom line. I worship the man. He's like a dream come true for me. I give it 150% not for the paycheck, but because I share his vision and mission. I would ride on his coat-tails any where. Truely!
Candy Hessler - Ashland, VAA track record of repeated, sustained superior performance, crossing multiple industry disciplines. An outstanding visionary combined with great execution! A rare combo these days.
Gary Samuels - Franklin, MIWith passion, commitment, sensitivity and dedication to his team, Robin has built NTI from a surviving start-up to a leading juggernaut in outbound notification to K-12 schools, higher-ed, cities and the military. He represents the ideals in social justice, responsible business management and entrepreneurship.
John Gamba, Jr. - Fort Myers, FLVery impressive!!
Wendy Petersen - Westford, MAWow!!! Best of luck to you.
Mary A. - Rancho Palos Verdes, CAHaving watched Mr. Richards lead NTI through this phenomenal growth, it is important to note that he created a highly competent team and a company culture where mind set is as important as skill set.
Tom Motter - Seal Beach, CAI work with Robin Richards. He is an exceptional leader with a vision to help and improve everything he comes into contact with on a daily basis.
Tim Schneider - Bloomington, MNRobin's vision, energy and compassion have resulted not just in the exponential growth of his business, but more importantly, have enabled millions of families and school children to feel safe, secure and confident knowing their community schools can and do clearly and quickly communicate emergency alerts, important information and upbeat, positive messages. Connect-Ed is more than just the gold standard for the industry, it is an example of a business/school partnership that is making an enduring difference. I am proud to be one of Robin's customers!
Max McGee, President Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy - Aurora, ILGreat story, great CEO!
Scott Byrnes - Melrose, MARobin Richards is truely visionary. As a parent, I receive calls from my son's school and it is wonderful! The school is much better at communicating and I feel better informed.
Dana Aiken - Vacaville, CARobin Richards is truely visionary. As a parent, I receive calls from my son's school and it is wonderful! The school is much better at communicating and I feel better informed.
Dana Aiken - Vacaville, CARobin is both a seer and entrepreneurial innovator. It does not matter whether it is the MP3 player or NTI. He has the skill set and inborn gifts to have the vision and pragmatic skill to create a market that benefits society has a whole and the individual at the same time – remarkable by any definition!
JAMerante, Ph.D. - Irwin, PAYou wont have to go far to find someone in your industry, group of friends, sports teams, neighbors or just about anywhere that is not impacted by this application service. It is truly unique and provides an amazing service to parents in this internet and fast moving times that we live in.
Brendan McKelvey - Nashua, NHRobin is a tremendous leader who builds great companies. He has a passion for his customers and building value. Not only do his customers love the products that he brings to the market, his employees love working for him.
Greg Kostello - San Diego, CAMr. Richards is an amazing man. His company has changed the landscape in school to home communication by connecting administrators with parents in an unprecedented manner.
Kim Haber - Malaga, SpainMr. Richards is an inspirational leader and CEO. I'm honored to work for NTI as part of the team.
Alex Weinberg - Studio City, CAVisonary, Leader, Innovator, Entrepreneur. Mr. Richards is indeed all of these however the trait that inspires people to believe and succeed is his Character.
Frank Ciraci - Woodland Hills, CARobin is a rare visionary leader who can spot unseen needs and the opportunities they present that so many others fail to understand. He Also has the business acumen to then transform that vision into world class products with an organizational structure that views it products or services as something that is in continual development and improvement. Outstanding choice!
Steve Farrar, Ph.D. - Stockton, CAI started with NTI this past summer. It is the most amazing company for whom I have ever worked ... in my 25+ years in the adult workforce. While I've only known Robin for a short time, it is clear that NTI's position as the market leader in the Alert & Notification Industry is a direct result of his forward thinking and business acumen. And there is an insatiable appetite to stay #1. Externally, the level of customer service is a true gold standard. The internal culture of this company is steeped in intellect, respect, and humility ... while expecting (maintaining) a high level of execution and performance. It is a unique balance of market leadership without arrogance. On top of it all, the menu of communication services provided to schools, colleges, cities, et al ... saves time, confusion, and lives. I have never been more proud of what I do, than now. Given the reality of the world we live in today, particularly in school environments ... I cannot fathom a more deserving recipient.
Jeff Coyle - Columbus, OHRobin embodies everything that one would want in an entrepeneur: he's a risk taker and visionary, a leader and a motivator, and, not least of all, a philanthropist. Each time he does something, you think he could'nt top himself. And then he goes out and tops himself!
Seth Davidson - Washington DCRobin epitomizes entrepreneurial spirit. He is what Benjamin Franklin defined by his own business enterprise what our founding fathers envisioned as the engine of growth and prosperity for Americans.
Mike Johnson - Crofton, MarylandRobin is an entrepreneur in the truest sense- not only does he embark on entrepreneurial business ventures- but he also inspires the entrepreneurial spirit in everyone he comes in contact with.
Alexandra Adair - Los Angeles, CARobin does well by doing good. Two very important things that are not mutually exclusive.
Josh Morgan - El Dorado Hills, CA
