Nathel (John) Fontana

Liberal arts professor

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Education

• M.B.A., Business Administration, Dartmouth College
• B.A., Economic & Political Science, Yale University

Credentials

• Professor of liberal arts, 2025–present, Savannah College of Art and Design, Savannah, GA

• CEO, 2022–24, RM Lucas LLC

• Interim CEO, 2021, Legacy Cabinets, Black Diamond Capital Management LLC
  Senior managing director, private equity, 2015–21

• President, 2011–14, Yankee Candle International Division, Yankee Candle Company, LLC

• CEO, 2009–10, Smith Mountain Industries/Virginia Candle Company

• CEO and board member, 2007–09, Hot Stuff Foods, Allied Capital
  Managing director, International & Portfolio Development, 2004–07

• Partner, 2002–04, TIGRIS, Inc.

• President/COO, 2000–02, eRUNWAY/Vested Development

• COO, co-founder, board member, 1999–2000, Gen3Partners

• COO, board member, 1998–99, Electrolux, LLC

• Partner, 1993–98, Deloitte & Touche/Braxton Associates

• Senior group manager, 1989–93, Frito-Lay

• Team leader, 1986–89, Bain & Co.