Robert S Livingston

Robert S Livingston, the author behind several insightful business books, draws his expertise from a rich tapestry of experiences that have shaped his profound insights. Throughout his career, he has been a steadfast champion of the "Back to Basics" approach, believing that mastering fundamental business principles is the key to sustainable success. He stands as a staunch advocate for time-tested, fundamental business principles that foster enduring growth in revenue, profits, cash flow, and business valuation. Bob firmly believes that mastering these essential frameworks not only safeguards your business but also protects the livelihoods of you and your employees. His approach emphasizes that true business dynamism comes from excelling in the basics rather than chasing fleeting trends.

 

His academic journey led him to earn a BS degree with Magna Cum Laude honors and an MBA, both from the University of Southern California. Yet, Bob's true mastery in financial analysis didn't stem solely from his educational background. Instead, it blossomed through hands-on experiences gained at Mobil Oil, Mattel Toys, and PepsiCo, where he honed his focus on core business principles.

 

However, Robert's most valuable lessons weren't cultivated in the hallowed halls of business schools or within Fortune 500 companies. His business acumen was forged through the crucible of real-world experience, where he served as CFO, Managing Director, President, or CEO in a diverse array of small- to medium-sized businesses, with revenue ranging from $3 million to $100 million. These experiences solidified his belief in the power of fundamental business practices.

 

Robert's comprehensive knowledge extends to various facets of business management, including Finance, Financial Planning & Analysis, Cash Flow Planning & Analysis, Strategic Planning, Accounting, Credit, IT, Sales, New Business Development, Marketing, Advertising, Manufacturing, Plant Operations, Warehouse, Purchasing, Quality Control, New Product Development, R&D, Human Resources, Customer Service, and Training. In each of these areas, he has consistently applied and refined his "Back to Basics" philosophy.

 

He has extensive expertise in multiple industries, encompassing B2B, B2C, and B2B2C experiences across the Oil, Toy, Quick Serve Restaurant, Food Manufacturing, Floral, Publishing, Book Distribution, Software, Mortgage, Wholesale Accessories, Promotional Products, Paralegal, Window Coverings, and Kids Sports Apparel sectors. This diverse experience has reinforced his belief that fundamental business principles transcend industry boundaries.

 

In addition to his corporate endeavors, Robert's entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish five successful businesses, further enhancing his understanding of the entrepreneurial landscape and the critical importance of mastering business basics.

 

As a book author, podcaster, and blogger, Robert exclusively crafts work rooted in his extensive background and his vision to touch the business lives of 3.5 million SMB business professionals, inspiring them to embrace the power of fundamental business principles. With over four decades entrenched in the business arena, he possesses a vast reservoir of knowledge that spans a diverse spectrum of topics, offering a wellspring of wisdom for readers seeking to master the essentials of business success.

 

Robert recognizes that every company's journey towards financial excellence is unique, but he firmly believes that the fundamentals remain constant. His life's work is dedicated to guiding SMB owners back to these essential principles, fostering a nationwide return to basics that enhances the capabilities, confidence, and business success of small and medium-sized businesses.