Byron Smith

Mr. Smith currently serves on or has visitation rights to the board of directors of the following companies: Silicon Ranch, a developer and operator of utility scale solar facilities that provides turn-key renewable energy solutions to industry and utility partners; ORIG3N, a biotechnology company that collects DNA samples and researches and develops treatments for genetically inherited diseases, as well as offers a series of genetic tests that provide reports and insights on various aspects of the test-taker; In the Bowl Animal Health, a companion animal health company providing pet owners with a creative alternative to current methods of drug administration; AngelEye Health, a developer of next generation camera systems and educational and clinical communications software to transform neonatal care; ReVIDA, a medication assisted treatment clinic operator assisting opioid addicts in their recovery; and Preferral, a platform designed to streamline the patient referral process.

Prior to his involvement with MGP, Mr. Smith held a long and distinguished career in the wireless and tech spaces. After receiving an MBA from the University of Chicago, Mr. Smith began his career at Procter & Gamble and PepsiCo in brand management and advertising. Mr. Smith transitioned into technology. First, in the early days of wireless, Mr. Smith served at Verizon (formally GTE); prior to the merger creating Verizon, all U.S. operating areas reported to him. In early 2000, Mr. Smith moved to Silicon Valley, where he was the EVP/GM and Chief Marketing Officer with Excite@Home. In Silicon Valley, Mr. Smith gained experience in media/content and internet technology/infrastructure. Mr. Smith moved home to Tennessee in 2002 with Asurion as EVP/CMO. He led the relocation of Asurion’s headquarters from Silicon Valley to Nashville.

Mr. Smith was also a founding board member at The Nashville Entrepreneur Center and sits on the boards of The Trinity Forum in Washington D.C., Montgomery Bell Academy and Intercollegiate Studies Institute. Recently, Mr. Smith taught entrepreneurship as an adjunct professor at Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management.