Stephen Carrabba

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Age: 32

Title at work/what I do: Founder and principal at Expense Consulting, a growing consulting firm that helps mid-to-large companies achieve cost savings in non-payroll related expenses. I am a passionate negotiator who enjoys finding win-win solutions for my clients and their third-party vendors. I am very proud that Expense Consulting operates on a pay-for-performance, gain-share model.

Town where I work: Bloomfield

Town where I live: Wethersfield

College I attended: Babson

My passion, hobby or special talent: Family, golf, rehabbing houses, and negotiating

No. of LinkedIn connections: 380

Favorite place to network: Golf course

Favorite drink at a networking event: Hendrick's and tonic

How do I create connections in my professional life?

Having grown up in West Hartford, I have a large family and many friends locally. I also made terrific friends at college in the Boston area and in a wide circle of business contacts in the past 10 years. I meet new contacts through referrals from business people with whom I have worked and through influential professionals whom I have met. I maintain contact with everyone primarily through personal connections, rather than through social networking. I am constantly on the phone and meeting face-to-face with members of my network.

What's been your biggest challenge professionally?

A big challenge has been overcoming the negative connotations that appear to come along with the title of consultant. I prefer to think of what we do as partnering with our clients, and I strive to have Expense Consulting become their trusted advisor. Another significant challenge has been finding the right talent for our team. On the operational side, Expense Consulting has been able to retain tremendous talent, but continues to seek professional business development personnel.

What is the best advice I received?

Be honorable in all dealings and think long-term; always do the right thing, something practiced by my father, Dr. Angelo Carrabba.

What do I want my legacy to be?

As a serial entrepreneur, my long-term goal is to profitably grow Expense Consulting to 10 times its current size while continuing to invest in promising startup companies that align with my values. I intend to nurture an impeccable reputation that encompasses my direct and honest approach to business. I appreciate the opportunities people continue to give me and I look forward to honoring them by paying it forward.

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