Birmingham-businessman Brandon Stewart has launched Starboard Investments, a Jimmy John’s franchise that owns and operates 12 locations in central Alabama.
A former investment banker, Stewart says he started Starboard Investments so that he can play a larger role in the community through capital investment and providing opportunities for others.
“My hope for the company is to find meaningful ventures, like our work with Jimmy John’s, that hold the same guiding principles of an employee-focused, community-based business paired with strong operations experience,” said Stewart.
In conjunction with the business’ debut, Stewart has hired Richie Fordham, a native of Birmingham, as director of finance. Fordham previously worked for Warren Averett before transitioning to a corporate finance role for Focus Brands.
In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, Stewart also has launched Pay It Forward Alabama, an organization that raises funds to support local charitable organizations in need. Pay It Forward Alabama will also fall within the Starboard Investments portfolio. To date, Pay It Forward Alabama has helped a number of community organizations and continues to raise funds for healthcare workers.
