A seasoned entrepreneur and advocate for Eastern European business, brings a unique perspective to the world of sports development and international relations.
With a passion for fostering growth and opportunity, Pete is now the President of Vertical Hoop Europe, a leading organization dedicated to promoting the sport of vertical hooping. His recent success in organizing a highly successful tournament in Wroclaw, Poland, showcases his ability to create impactful events and platforms for athletes.
Pete's commitment to international collaboration extends beyond sports. He has a deep understanding of the cultural and business landscape between Poland and the United States, having been involved in various initiatives to strengthen ties between the two countries. Notably, he and his wife, Kasia, established the Novak Family Polish Chair at Quinnipiac University, a significant contribution to fostering academic and cultural exchange.
As a dedicated advocate for athlete development, Pete is actively working to create opportunities for athletes to secure scholarships in the United States. His expertise in sports promotion, combined with his understanding of international relations, positions him as a valuable asset in bridging the gap between talented athletes and educational institutions.
AT-A-GLANCE
My contributions to the international business community spans speaking engagements, coaching, board memberships and entrepreurship, all with the intention to pave the way for future generations of leaders.
Integrity Solutions Poland
Company Focus: Innovative sales, customer service and coaching trainings that increase efficiency, support talents and build leaders. Integrity has over 50 years of experience, with a presence in 130 countries and across numerous industries.
Role: Founder / Co-Owner.
Highclere Castle Cigar Co.
Company Focus: Hand - rolled cigars from Estelí, Nicaragua, using the best Connecticut Shade wrapper and Brazilian Mata Fina.
Role: Investor / Advisor. Strategic advisor and early investor.
Highclere Castle
Company Focus: Award winning gin.
Role: Private Investor. I've been actively involved in launching this business from concept to reality.
V-One Vodka
Company Focus: 100% organic spelt grain vodka; crafted in Poland from seed to bottle. American-owned, proudly crafted in Poland. Distilled in Kamień, Poland.
Role: Investor / Advisor. Since its launch, I have been coaching V-One Vodka on strategy, distribution and vision.
Charter Oak Financial
Company Focus: Life insurance and investment services.
Role: General Agent.
Key Figures: $90 million in premium, $4.8 billion in assets under management.
Key Accomplishments: Grew agency from 25 agents to 180 agents; won 15 MassMutual Chairman’s Trophies; developed four front-line managers into General Agents.
Axia Insurance Company
Company Focus: Risk insurance, property and casualty insurance, payroll deduction.
Role: Co-founder.
Key Figures: $24 million in premiums; $3 million annual revenue.
Key Accomplishments: Started company from scratch, has since grown to 34 employees and $3 million in annual revenue.
Singing Mud, LLC
Company Focus: Real estate investments.
Role: Owner of diversified real estate portfolio in New Haven, CT ranging from commercial properties to multi-family homes
GAMA International
• LAMP Platform Speaker, 2013 | A Legacy of Leadership, focusing on the ways in which the next generation of leaders can keep our industry thriving and relevant.
• GAMA Foundation Board of Trustees, 2004-2006
• GAMA Foundation Research and Special Projects Committee, 2004-2006
• Keeping the Right People, A Systems for Success Study, Contributor, 2005
• Finding the Right People, A Systems for Success Study, Contributor, 2006
Industry recognition:
GAMA International
• Hall of Fame Inductee, 2019
• Cy Pick Award, 2018
• Master Agency Award, 2002, 2007-2020
• James Krueger First In Class Award, 2010-2011, 2017
• International Managers Award, 2004-2006, 2008-2014
• NMA Platinum Award, 2002-2003
• NMA Platinum Financial Planning Award, 2001
• NMA Traditional Gold Award, 2000
• NMA Award, 1999