Michael Heisley Sr
Computer salesman-turned-entrepreneur sold house for $150,000, borrowed another $10 million to buy sewer-and-drain company Conco. Today holding company Heico operates 40 companies with combined sales of $2.5 billion; funnels cash straight into next buyout, usually near-bankrupt Rust Belt manufacturers. “My goal is to keep profits down and cash flow up.” Tried to sell pro basketball’s Memphis Grizzlies to group led by former players Brian Davis and Christian Laettner; deal soured after group failed to produce cash needed to buy the team.