Gordon S. Saint-Denis '91MBA

Gordon S. Saint-Denis '91MBA is Executive Vice President of Sports Finance at Northwest Bank, where he leads strategy, credit, underwriting policies, and loan processes for the sports finance market. He brings over 20 years of experience structuring and executing transactions with professional sports franchises, sports manufacturing and technology companies, and e-sports businesses. Prior to joining Northwest, Saint-Denis held sports-focused roles at Monroe Capital, Citizens Bank, Huntington Bank, and Lehman Brothers.

Why did you choose Iona to pursue your MBA?  

I chose Iona largely because my wife, then girlfriend, Gabriela, was working at Iona. Ultimately, it was the school’s proximity to New York City and the strong networking opportunities with alumni that made Iona especially appealing given my interest in finance and investment banking.

How did your MBA help you in your career?  

My MBA experience gave me direct access to professors who were deeply invested in student success. I was able to sit down with them, discuss my career aspirations, and brainstorm strategies for breaking into finance. I was also able to personally connect with alumni, which was invaluable before the era of social media. These connections and mentorship opportunities helped me build a foundation for my career.

What is your advice for current students?  

I encourage all students to pursue their passions, even in the face of resistance, sharing how his own boss discouraged him from pursuing sports finance—but he pressed forward anyway. I also stressed the importance of humility and continuous learning: “You’ve got to know what you don’t know and then go learn it.”.

What is your proudest professional achievement?  

My proudest professional achievement was starting and building a $2 billion sports finance portfolio from scratch with SG Cowan in 1995. A highlight was arranging financing for the Montreal Canadiens in 2006—particularly meaningful because I grew up in Montreal, played hockey there, and was once scouted by the team.

What is your fondest memory/favorite faculty member at Iona?  

My fondest memory was my relationship with Professor Joe Ford, who taught economics. We connected beyond the classroom, even playing golf together after I graduated. He was a true gentleman who gave sage advice and mentorship.

What do you believe are your secrets to success?  

Three key things - don’t take no for an answer if you know you’re right, practice humility by recognizing what you don’t know and actively learning and maintaining proactive networking. I make it a habit to reach out to people regularly — not just when I need something.