Meet the CEO of US Polo Assn: He grew up in one of America’s poorest regions and now hosts Prince William and runs a $2.7 billion brand

Meet J. Michael Prince, the CEO of U.S. Polo Assn., a $2.7 billion global heritage polo brand that's synonymous with luxury and sophistication. Prince's remarkable story is one of overcoming incredible odds, from growing up in one of America's poorest regions to becoming a business leader who rubs shoulders with royalty, including Prince William.

Background & Context

U.S. Polo Assn. is a brand that's deeply rooted in the world of polo, a sport often associated with wealth and privilege. Its global headquarters in Palm Beach, Florida, is a testament to its success, with a presence in 190 countries and 1,200 retail stores. But behind the brand's luxurious façade lies a remarkable story of entrepreneurial spirit and determination.

Prince's upbringing in southeastern Oklahoma, one of the poorest regions in the United States, is a stark contrast to the world of polo he now inhabits. The area has been plagued by poverty, with nearly 14% of its residents living below the poverty line. Yet, Prince's journey from this challenging background to the pinnacle of success is a testament to the power of hard work and determination.

Key Details

Prince's rise to the top began with a humble start in accounting, a profession that few others wanted. "The only chance I have, coming from a small university, to really have a great business opportunity, was through public accounting," he says. This decision may have seemed mundane, but it opened doors to some of the world's most coveted brands.

With a degree from East Central University and later a Duke MBA, Prince climbed the corporate ladder with ease. He became the CFO of Nike Affiliates, overseeing a $4 billion portfolio that included Converse, Cole Haan, Hurley, and Umbro. This achievement marked his entry into the C-suite of luxury fashion, and he continued to rise through the ranks, becoming the COO of Guess and eventually taking the helm at U.S. Polo Assn in 2017.

Prince's approach to business is refreshingly straightforward. "A great work ethic, being respectful and considerate of others – that's what got me here," he says. He attributes his success to his ability to find common ground with people and bring a positive energy to his work. This attitude has served him well, earning him the respect of his peers and the trust of his clients.

What Experts Say

Prince's story serves as a reminder that success is not solely dependent on credentials or background. Andy Jassy, another business leader who swears by the importance of attitude, agrees that a positive work ethic and a willingness to learn can take you further than any skill on your resume. Prince's story is a testament to the power of attitude in achieving success.

Prince's journey also highlights the importance of seizing opportunities when they arise. "You're going to get a handful of opportunities in life, both personally and professionally," he says. "Always be looking forward – and be thoughtful when you see those opportunities about how to maximise them. Because they may not be there six months from now."

Key Takeaways

• From Poverty to Prosperity: Prince's remarkable story is a testament to the power of hard work and determination.
• Attitude Trumps Credentials: Prince's positive work ethic and willingness to learn have taken him further than any skill on his resume.
• Seize Opportunities: Prince's advice to always be looking forward and maximising opportunities when they arise is a valuable lesson for anyone looking to achieve success.
• Respect and Consideration: Prince's emphasis on being respectful and considerate of others is a key factor in his success and a valuable lesson for business leaders.

What This Means For You

Prince's story is a reminder that success is not solely dependent on background or credentials. It's a testament to the power of hard work, determination, and a positive attitude. Whether you're looking to start your own business or climb the corporate ladder, Prince's story serves as a valuable reminder of the importance of attitude and seizing opportunities when they arise.

As you read Prince's story, remember that success is within your reach. With hard work, determination, and a positive attitude, you can overcome any obstacle and achieve your goals. So, take a page from Prince's book and remember that attitude will take you further than any skill on your resume.