Kasparov to deliver School of Graduate Studies Commencement Address
The speaker for the School of Graduate Studies Ceremony is Vladimir Kasparov, a 2001 Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration and 2005 Master of Business Administration graduate. With more than two decades of experience in financial and operational restructuring, Kasparov has built a distinguished career advising organizations through periods of transition, complexity and growth.
Kasparov currently serves as Managing Director specializing in turnaround and restructuring services at Portage Point Partners, a middle market advisory, interim management and investment banking firm. In this role, he partners with companies, financial institutions and private equity stakeholders to navigate complex business challenges, delivering integrated financial, operational and strategic solutions that drive stability and long-term value. His expertise spans restructuring strategy, operational improvement and interim executive leadership, positioning him as a trusted advisor during critical moments of change.
Prior to joining Portage Point Partners, Kasparov spent more than a decade with Andrews Advisory Group as a Turnaround and Restructuring Professional, where he advised hedge funds, mezzanine lenders and private equity firms on complex corporate restructurings and operational turnarounds. Throughout his career, he has stepped into key leadership roles, including Chief Restructuring Officer for a national food co-packer and distributor, where he led a comprehensive operational restructuring and Chapter 11 363 sale process.
As Interim Chief Financial Officer for a national logistics and fulfillment company, Kasparov guided the organization through restructuring efforts and a successful sale. Earlier in his career, he served as a Manager for the United States branch of UHY, one of the nation’s largest firms providing audit, tax, consulting and advisory services to clients primarily in the dynamic middle market. Kasparov has also held leadership roles within a middle market private equity fund, including Senior Associate and Vice President, further strengthening his expertise in finance, operations and strategic expansion.
In addition to his executive leadership experience, Kasparov has provided strategic advisory services to boards of directors and led major operational initiatives for a $2 billion international bakery manufacturer and distributor, culminating in the refinance of nearly $400 million in global indebtedness. His work has supported large-scale financial refinancings and the implementation of value-driven strategies designed to ensure long-term sustainability and growth. His career reflects a consistent ability to guide organizations through uncertainty while positioning them for future success.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Kasparov remains deeply committed to family and community. He is actively involved in coaching youth soccer and enjoys spending time outdoors, as well as participating in competitive cycling events. As a proud USI graduate, he represents the impact of a strong educational foundation combined with a commitment to leadership, resilience and continuous growth.