Early Life and Education
Stephen Deckoff, born in 1964, began his journey with a solid foundation in education. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Operations Research from Cornell University's Engineering School.
Rise to Success
Deckoff's career took off with significant roles in the financial sector. Prior to founding Black Diamond Capital Management in 1995, he gained experience at several firms. He served as a Senior Vice President at Kidder, Peabody & Co., where he headed the Structured Finance Group. Before Kidder, he held the position of Managing Director in the Structured Finance Group at Bear Stearns & Co. He also worked in the Structured Finance Department of Chemical Securities, Inc. and the Fixed Income Research Department at Drexel Burnham Lambert. These experiences provided him with the necessary knowledge and expertise to establish his own successful private equity firm.
Key Business Strategies
Deckoff's strategic approach is evident in Black Diamond Capital Management, which specializes in high-yield debt, distressed debt, and business restructuring. The firm's focus has been on transforming challenging situations into successful ventures across different industries. Deckoff's leadership extends to board positions in several Black Diamond portfolio companies, including Consumer Portfolio Services, Inc., ION Media, and others.
Philanthropy and Recent Ventures
Demonstrating his commitment to the U.S. Virgin Islands, where he has been a resident since 2011, Deckoff has supported the region's economic development and has contributed more than $1.2 million to local non-profits. In 2023, he acquired Great St. James and Little St. James islands (formerly owned by Jeffrey Epstein) for $60 million, with plans to develop a luxury resort. He also recently acquired Gosman's Dock in Montauk with his son.