One might ask, why the name Jefferson Partners? Our choice of this name was not lightly taken. As a group of professional colleagues, of partners, we felt it was appropriate to symbolize our firm’s vision, values and endeavors in the contemporary realm of executive leadership by taking the name of a notable, suitable figure from American history. Thomas Jefferson is a well-known leader, whose own values and achievements in their own way demonstrate the good that can come when one individual, one person, exhibits leadership through their high standards, vision, strong values, and a constant commitment to learning.

It is not easy to capture in a few words the values, doctrines and points of view that Jefferson’s life and accomplishments represent to us, but author and Jefferson expert, Coy Barefoot, presents a succinct description of this extraordinary “renaissance” American in the preface to his terrific book, Thomas Jefferson On Leadership: Executive Lessons From His Life and Letters.

"Jefferson was undeniably one of the greatest leaders the world has ever known. Author of the Declaration of Independence, third president of the United States, secretary of state, ambassador to France, and founder of the University of Virginia, Jefferson’s extraordinary life and accomplishments inspire men and women around the world to this day. A skilled statesman, philosopher, lawyer, scientist, musician, architect, writer, and farmer – Thomas Jefferson was among the brightest and most learned men of his generation. His leadership was, and continues to be, critical to the success of this great experiment in democracy we call the United States.

This shy, temperamental, bookish man overcame his personal limitations to become one of the most exemplary and influential leaders in world history. There is a great deal that each of us can learn from his example.

Like most people, Jefferson was not a born leader, but throughout his life he was certainly willing to learn. He challenged himself at every turn, committed himself to gaining the knowledge and skills that he believed would make him a better human being and in turn inspire others to do so as well. That’s ultimately what the American Enlightenment was all about: opening the mind to new ideas and challenges, and making a sincere effort to improve the lot of humankind. Learning to be a leader was an integral part of that formula."

We believe that Thomas Jefferson – his life, values and lessons – can serve us today as both inspiration and guide for all executives, in and beyond the boardroom and the executive suite. We are determined to represent these ideals fully as Jefferson Partners.

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