RAYMOND W. MERRITT
Managing Director

Biography

In the 1980’s, Ray Merritt moved to New York City to begin a career on Wall Street. His venture capital and entrepreneurial pursuits began a decade later as the Co-Founder and Director of Development of a national restaurant development firm. He created a regional chain concept, and opened the prototype in Memphis, TN. Within a year, the restaurant was the highest grossing in the state. The stellar performance drew the attention of a local investment group, and the concept, the Memphis restaurant and future development rights were acquired by a private equity fund.

Building on that success, Ray and his venture capital team started a technology equipment leasing company. He assumed ownership of the firm through a spin-off, incorporated an additional revenue stream – a wholly owned technology value-added equipment reseller – allowing the company to provide a “total solution” for their customers. These strategic moves and Ray’s “Customer First” ethos increased revenues tenfold and ultimately resulted in its sale to a Fortune 500 company.

Ray then took his life-long interest in architecture and real estate development and created a residential development company – acquiring land, creating plans and building high end homes on the East End of Long Island and throughout the New York Metropolitan area.

Starting in 2015, Ray led an art management company focused on fine art photography and philanthropy. His firm connected scores of artists with hundreds of collectors, museums and institutions across the country.

Professional Affiliations

Summit Downtown Inc., Executive Committee & Board Member
2019-present

The Cygnet Foundation, President
1997-present

Summit Public Arts, Board Member
2016-2019

Summit Police Athletic League, Board Member
2010-2016