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Marley is a native of New York City and holds a BA in Biology from Colorado College and a Masters degree in Business Administration from the Leeds School of Business. Marley and business partner Dan Long founded MAD Greens in 2004. Today, MAD Greens operates 34 restaurants throughout CO, TX, AZ and UT with significant expansion plans for 2018 and beyond. From the founding of MAD Greens in 2004 until December of 2016, Marley served as CEO, guiding the Colorado-based restaurant chain’s operations, marketing, real estate, strategy and human resources. Marley was recognized by the Denver Business Journal as one of Denver’s “40 under 40” top business leaders, and MAD Greens was named the 2007 Emerging Business of the Year by the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce. 

What is your favorite memory from the MBA program?
My favorite memory of the MBA program at Leeds was getting to interact closely with Aaron Kennedy, founder of Noodles and Company. During my second year, the Deming Center for Entrepreneurship brought Aaron and his CFO in to work a live case study/project with several MBAs. At the time, Aaron was trying to decide whether to take his 35-unit restaurant company down the road of franchising or whether to prepare for an IPO. We worked with Aaron for a few days to help him and his team decide which direction to choose. It was a great real world experience and one that ultimately caused me to take the plunge and start MAD Greens.

Throughout your career, what is one best practice that you have taken with you?
People make or break companies! Be very selective and rigorous in your hiring practices. Furthermore, when it comes to addressing people issues, do not procrastinate. Leaving bad apples in place only serves to chase away your best performers. I have seen it happen several times, and it hurts.

What advice would you give someone who is interested in starting their own company?
Don't believe your own hype (or BS). Try and think very critically about decisions and separate your emotions, ego and zeal from the process. Be sure to research and carefully analyze your idea(s) before committing too much. But once you have done that and are confident...jump in with both feet and go for it!

How are you currently involved with the Leeds School?
I have been on the Leeds Board of Alumni and Friends for 10 years now and have served a couple of stints on the Board of the Deming Center, as well. I enjoy guest lecturing in classes, participating in industry round tables and serving as a judge or mentor in various student competitions. Recently, I was honored to be asked to be the Graduate Commencement Speaker. It was a great experience and certainly one I will remember for a long time. Leeds is such a special place, I feel honored to be able to give back in as many ways as I can.

To nominate yourself or a fellow Leeds alumnus or alumna to be in an upcoming alumni newsletter, email LeedsSuccess@colorado.edu.

July 2017