Robert Knox

Robert Knox is a prominent figure in the private equity industry with a long and successful career spanning over four decades. As the Senior Managing Director of Cornerstone Equity Investors, LLC, Knox has played a pivotal role in shaping the firm's investment strategy and success.1

Career Highlights

Knox founded Cornerstone Equity Investors in 1983 and has been serving as its Senior Managing Director since then.1 Under his leadership, Cornerstone has become a significant player in the private equity sector, focusing on investments in various industries:

• Healthcare services and products
• Business services
• Technology-related manufacturing
• Consumer products

The firm has funded over 120 companies through middle market buyouts and expansion financings since 1984.1 Some of the notable companies that Cornerstone has provided financing to include Dell Computer, Health Management Associates, Linear Technology, Micron Technology, and Sunglass Hut.1

Prior Experience

Before establishing Cornerstone Equity Investors, Knox held a prominent position at Prudential Financial:

• Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Prudential Equity Investors, Inc., the private equity subsidiary of Prudential Financial
• Designed and executed the initial Alternative Asset investment strategy at Prudential12

Board Memberships and Expertise

Throughout his career, Knox has served on the boards of more than 25 private and public companies.1 His expertise is particularly notable in the healthcare sector, along with significant experience in technology and consumer product companies. He was the lead independent director of Health Management Associates (NYSE) before its acquisition by Community Health Systems.1

Education and Philanthropy

Knox's educational background and philanthropic efforts include:

• Bachelor of Arts Degree in Economics from Boston University (1974)
• MBA from Boston University (1975)
• Received an Honorary Degree from Boston University in 2017
• Delivered the commencement address at the Questrom School of Business
• Served as a trustee of Boston University for 20 years
• Chairman of the Board of Trustees at Boston University from 2008 to 201612

Robert Knox's extensive experience in private equity, his leadership at Cornerstone Equity Investors, and his contributions to Boston University have solidified his position as a respected figure in both the business and academic worlds.