Brandon Reed
Brandon Reed: 33
Owner, Fitness Together
Brandon Reed might be one of the few people to thank Enron for launching their career.
As an accountant for Arthur Andersen, the firm indicted for its role in that historic scandal, Reed said that it was that job, along with a few more years of work in public accounting, that made him realize the profession was not for him. Deciding to become a personal trainer, he said, was the best decision he’s ever made, and the business model followed closely behind.
“It all happened so quickly,” he said. “From the time I decided that I wanted to shift to health and fitness, next thing I knew I was approaching my dad about opening a personal-training studio, which is a very doable entry, in the amount of capital required.” After just under four years, Reed is actively employing six trainers at his Northampton location, with about 75 clients getting the benefit of his expertise.
And they’re not the only ones.
Reed was nominated for this award by numerous people for his role in building a strong community as well. An active member of the Loomis Communities board and the Northampton Chamber of Commerce, and one of the founding members of the Northampton Area Young Professionals, Reed is perhaps most proud of his role as a local business owner.
“Bringing up the quality of business in the area only helps to bring up quality for everyone,” he said of his support of fellow merchants. “I know how hard all the other business owners work, and it’s important for me to be a part of that network.”
The Enron scandal, he said, made him realize the lack of connectedness between clients and professionals. “Here and now,” he continued, “I know the clients personally. It’s hard to put into words, but that’s small business. Being connected with people and seeing the fruits of your labor, that’s the satisfaction that you get as a business owner.”
—Dan Chase
