CHENAULT SANDERS - Founder & CEO
Chenault Sanders is an executive, entrepreneur and attorney responsible for the creation of prominent hospitality, media and lifestyle companies across the South. An attorney by training, Mr. Sanders pivoted his business over a decade ago to focus on early stage companies. Since then, he and a close team of trusted partners have helped build companies that resonate deeply with businesses, consumers, and investors. Mr. Sanders founded Blackbird upon his departure from large law firm practice in 2007. Blackbird specializes in real estate, emerging restaurant franchising, branding companies, and out-of-home media assets. Blackbird is headquartered in Nashville and owns or controls portfolio assets from the Gulf Coast to Northern Virginia. Blackbird leverages its relationships and experience by using operating businesses to drive value both at the enterprise level but also by using such specializations to build asset value in real property. Its principals are very active as investors, advisors, and owners in the Nashville real estate and investment community. Mr. Sanders is the founder and CEO of Blackbird Media, the largest independent out-of-home media company in Tennessee. Blackbird Media controls high-quality static and digital advertising properties – many with iconic status. The company uses those properties and its unique model to connect national brands with the communities they serve. Blackbird relies heavily on digital technology, creating unique advertising experiences for customers and the public. Mr. Sanders also manages $150MM private investment vehicle that primarily focuses on alternative investments, including venture capital, private equity, private real estate, and private credit, among other investment classes through a selection of funds. With a background in complex trust and estate planning, Sanders has done extensive work with closely-held investment entities, and has particular expertise in multi-class, multiple-tiered partnership structures, having represented clients in tax motivated transfers with cumulative asset values in excess of $2.0 billion dollars. Mr. Sanders holds a B.A. from The College of Charleston, a J.D. from Vanderbilt Law School, and an LL.M. in taxation from New York University School of Law. A native Nashvillian, Mr. Sanders lives in Nashville with his wife and two daughters, and their two dogs.