Joe Jackson

Why did you apply to serve on the Belk College Alumni Council and what did you gain from your service? 

After I started to become reengaged with UNC Charlotte through investing in the new football program, a friend asked me to serve on the Belk College Alumni Council. Since joining the Council, I made several new friendships, reconnected with a number of professors, and became aware of the tremendous growth plans for the University. This experience has also been the inspiration behind several new business opportunities I am exploring.
 

Alumnus
1998
Economics
Master of Business Administration
Joe Jackson graduated twice from UNC Charlotte, in 1994 with his bachelor's degree in economics and in 1998 with his MBA. Jackson is Managing Partner of Metrolina Capital Advisors, LLC. He is a member of the Belk College Alumni Council and also serves on the UNC Charlotte Athletic Foundation Board. Jackson has earned his MAI and MRICS designations along with an existing CCIM. He was appointed Chairman of Board of Carolinas Business Capital, a regional SBA 504 CDC, and was added to the Board of Directors of Community First Bank in upstate South Carolina.
What is your current role?

I am the Managing Partner of several investment funds. Our investment strategy centers on acquiring commercial properties and debt secured by commercial properties. These investments include investing in operating businesses, real estate private equity funds and strategic joint ventures.

Why did you choose UNC Charlotte?

I was very excited about the opportunity to be part of the UNC Charlotte Belk College of Business. It had a wonderful reputation and was located within commuting distance from my home.

What kinds of opportunities did you have at UNC Charlotte? 

I was married and working in my own business while attending UNC Charlotte and had two very small children during graduate school. I did, however, have the opportunity to do an independent study under Dr. Rick Zuber. He allowed me to develop an NBA basketball game forecasting model that was a fairly accurate predictor of some games’ outcomes.

What was the best part of your Belk College experience? 

UNC Charlotte provided me with an outstanding education taught by very knowledgeable professors in my chosen field of study. I am grateful for the valuable relationships I developed and have maintained many of them throughout the years.

What was your first job after graduation?

As an undergraduate, I began my career as an entrepreneur by starting my own business, Charlotte Appraisal Associates, Inc. and Metrolina Development Corporation, and continued to run the companies following graduation.

What did you learn in the Belk College that has best prepared you for your career?

Not only did I achieve a solid grasp of business principles, I learned organizational leadership, strategic planning, financial management and business ethics.  I also learned that successful businesses are built on strong personal relationships. 

What advice do you have for current Belk College students? 

Internships are extremely valuable and can open the door to employment opportunities.  Seek out these opportunities, even if unpaid, as their impact on your career can be invaluable.

What is the importance of giving back to you in terms of time, talent or treasures?

I have always felt the value of the education I received from UNC Charlotte far exceeded the investment I made in my education. Giving back is very important to me. Whether donating time and talent to serve on several boards at the school, or treasure, it’s exciting to see the positive impact a little help can yield.  

Is there anything else you woud like to add?

I am very proud of the education I received at UNC Charlotte, and I look forward to seeing the University grow and have an even greater impact on future generations.

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