Curtis C. Battles

Minority Business Growth Program Coordinator (MBGP)

Curtis Battles brings extensive experience in business strategy, finance, and operations to the CTSBDC team. His career spans various industries, including real estate, corporate strategy, and entrepreneurship, supporting organizations from Fortune 50 companies to startups.

Curtis has significant experience in leading redevelopment projects. At Grand Central Terminal, he was part of the executive team responsible for its total renovation and transformation into a major transportation and retail hub. He oversaw the repositioning of low-end retail to upscale offerings, the creation of a new dining concourse, and the development of a special events business that generated incremental revenue.

At the World Trade Center site, Curtis served as National Director, where he guided the redevelopment of the 16-acre property. He created innovative operational strategies, renegotiated key agreements, and implemented governance structures among multiple stakeholders

At Pepsi-Cola Company, Curtis held several key positions, including Regional Chief Financial Officer and Head of Strategic Planning. In these roles, he provided strategic direction, conducted competitive analysis, and assessed new product opportunities, contributing to the company’s growth and market presence.

Curtis is the founder of Craft Beer Insights, an advisory firm focused on operations, branding, and growth for craft breweries. He also authored Occupation Fermentation: The Secrets to Building a Successful Craft Beer Business.

In addition to his professional roles, Curtis serves as a board member and former president of the 100 Black Men of Stamford, leading programs focused on mentoring, youth development, education, and workforce readiness.

He earned a Master of Management in Finance and Strategy from Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management and a Bachelor of Science from Cornell University’s School of Hotel Administration.

Outside work, Curtis enjoys cooking, traveling the world, and spending time with his wife and their two dogs.