ABI Leadership Profile: Reginald (Reggie) W. Jackson (President)
We are pleased that Reggie Jackson agreed to be interviewed for this second ABI Leadership Profile column. After more than 15 years of involvement in ABI, Reggie was named President earlier this year. Reggie is a partner in the Columbus, Ohio based law firm of Vorys, Sater, Seymour and Pease LLP, where he focuses on commercial insolvency/bankruptcy, representing secured and unsecured creditors, creditors’ committees and debtors. For all those attending the Winter Leadership Conference, we hope that you will make a point to say “hello” to Reggie. He is not only a fine ABI President, he is also a really nice guy.
What are some of the recent cases that you have been involved in?
I have served as the counsel to the future claimants representative in an asbestos chapter 11 case.
When did you become an ABI member?
1992
How did you first get involved in ABI?
Wayne Walker invited me to participate in an ABI-sponsored program held in Los Angeles to address financial aspects of community rebuilding after the Rodney King-related riots. I joined ABI in order to participate in that program.
Describe your past and current involvement in ABI.
I have served in the past as a member of the Asset Sales and Business Reorganization Committees. Thereafter, I was named an ABI Journal Executive Editor, to the ABI Board of Directors, Executive Committee of the Board and President-Elect. I now serve as President of ABI.
How did you advance in the ABI, and what advice do you have for young or new members who want to get move involved in ABI?
I volunteered for anything and everything that was available and that I had an interest in. If I said I would help to get something done, I would. I kept going to meetings so that I developed relationships with many members, some of whom were leaders in the organization. In terms of advice, I would recommend adopting a long-range approach. Relationships are not built overnight and opportunities often take time and diligence to present themselves. Think in terms of what you can add to ABI instead of what ABI can do for you.
Other comments/background that should be shared with young and new members.
There is no other organization like ABI. Despite ABI’s growth, the organization is always in need of new faces, new players and new energy. In my experience with other professional organizations, ABI offers more opportunities for involvement and exposure—not to mention the excellent substantive support provided to members. Do not let any initial discomfort or feeling like you do not know enough people or that you cannot make a difference deter you. With persistence and effort, your ABI experience will be positive and beneficial.