2015 Business Excellence Winner: Brendan P. Keegan of Velocity Performance

Nominated by: Cam Rogers of Velocity Performance 

Brendan has always exhibited true leadership. He began his career in a number of management capacities at Electronic Data Systems, a $22 billion dollar technology firm, where he became one of Fortune 100’s youngest chief sales officers.

At age 29, Brendan became the CEO of a multibillion-dollar firm, and has since served in that position for three other large, private equity backed companies, leading 25,000 people in 150 countries.

Brendan has spent his career leading, growing and restructuring businesses. He has raised nearly a billion dollars in capital and maintained an internal rate of return twice the industry average, through executing successful exit strategies.

When Brendan co-founded Velocity Performance, his vision was to accelerate the performance of leaders, sales professionals and individuals.

Now, he passes on leadership skills not only to business clientele but also the next generation, with Victory Academy, a leadership training program that helps youth build their own leadership foundation, through exercises identifying the nine “attributes of winners.” Those attributes are purpose, courage, faith, character, strength, fire, service, love and leadership.

Last December, the 4-hour Victory Academy was held at Saint Patrick’s Parish gym in Nashua. Over 20 leadership coaches, ranging from sports coaches to business executives, held learning stations with thoughtful exercises and discussions.

Keegan and his wife, Dana, also founded the Keegan Family COURATE & FAITH Foundation, focused on supporting youth academics, education, leadership and athletics.

And recently, Brendan announced Velocity Performance’s Leadership Academy, which is an open enrollment program designed to challenge professionals to accelerate their careers and their leadership.

When Brendan talks about the progression of his career, he talks about how making errors is critical to success. He’s a great example of how one can overcome challenges to rise to the top.