Ira Blumenthal

Considered a modern day business “Renaissance Man,” Ira Blumenthal is the president of CO-OPPORTUNITIES, Inc., an Atlanta-based consulting company that has counseled world class clients such as Coca-Cola (the world’s most recognized brand), Nestle, Kroger, McDonald’s, Harrah’s, Delta Airlines, Exxon, Wal-Mart and others in areas related to branding and strategic alliances.

Ira is a published author. His first book, Ready, Blame, Fire! focuses on the “myths and misses in marketing” and is highly focused on brand creation, development, extension, alliance and equity. He is also the recipient of the coveted “George Washington Honor Medal For Literary Excellence” (Freedoms Foundation). Ira has written and published over 100 magazine articles on business development. He has also received numerous business and civic awards and honors, including The Educational Foundation’s highest honor for his contributions to “…spirited, innovative business education.”

The former host of a popular radio talk show (“SuccessTalk”), Ira has interviewed guest “success stories” such as General Colin Powell, Mario Andretti, Tommy Lasorda and other notables. Ira has also served as visiting university instructor at The University of Notre Dame and Michigan State University. Guest lecturing at many institutions, Ira also delivered the commencement program at the University of Houston’s Conrad Hilton School of Business. Ira was also honored being named the “first” Executive-In-Residence at Georgia State University’s Robinson College of Business… where his focus area is brands, branding, brand development, etc.

Delivering over 75 speeches annually, Ira has served as the “opener” for leaders such as General Colin Powell, Tommy Lasorda, Bob Dole, Lech Walesa and others, and has lectured on four continents. Recognized as a business development expert, Ira has been quoted and featured in media sources such as “The Wall Street Journal,” “USA Today,” CNN, “BrandWeek,” “Entrepreneur Magazine,” “Executive Excellence,” “Marketing News,” etc.

On a personal note, Ira is

• a committed leader in the fight against hunger
• a tireless community activist and youth coach
• in his own youth, was a “World Cup” athlete, as well as a collegiate Football and Lacrosse coach.

Originally from New York, Ira resides in Hot-lanta, Georgia with his red-head Missouri bride, Kim. He is the father of two daughters and three sons.