Zachary A. Wydra

Zachary Wydra is the Chief Executive Officer and a Portfolio Manager. He manages accounts for individuals, partnerships, trusts, retirement accounts, and endowments. In his role as CEO, he leads the firm's management team in furthering the exceptional legacy and reputation of First Manhattan.

Prior to joining First Manhattan in 2015, Zac spent more than 10 years at another money management firm, where he was responsible for managing client accounts and a mutual fund.

Zac holds graduate degrees from Columbia University and The Wharton School of The University of Pennsylvania and an undergraduate degree from Brown University.

He lives in Rye, New York, with his wife and three children.

Portfolio construction and management

When evaluating a potential investment, Zac focuses on the quality of the management team and believes that a high-functioning, competitive culture is essential to a company's long-term success.

Additionally, he believes that balance sheet strength, growth potential, and durability of competitive positioning are key components of an investment decision. By focusing on owning what he views as the highest-quality businesses at reasonable valuations and adhering to the time-tested philosophy described as: "Rule #1 - don't lose money and Rule #2 - don't forget Rule #1," Zac seeks to both compound and protect client capital.

He believes in:

• Prioritizing quality with regards to 1) management, 2) durability of competitive advantage, 3) growth potential, and 4) financial strength.
• Focusing on the long-term compounding of capital.
• Acting with focus and humility in managing risk and protecting clients.
• Investing his personal capital directly alongside clients.