Erich Tengelsen

Erich founded Ridgeline Ventures out of his passion for helping entrepreneurs build successful, meaningful companies. Prior to Ridgeline, he was a founding partner of Chicago Trading Company (CTC) a leading market-making firm that specializes in exchange listed derivatives. The firm started in 1995, and during his 15 years he served as co-CEO he guided the growth of the company from eight employees to 325, with offices in Chicago, New York, and London. His responsibilities included trading, risk management, human resources and managing senior technology personnel. Erich stepped away from the day-to-day operations of CTC at the end of 2009 to start The Tengelsen Family Foundation which focuses on inner-city education, childhood obesity, and mental health and wellness. The foundation’s mission is to partner with local organizations to help them expand their vision and scope. Erich began his career in the financial industry at O’Connor and Associates in 1986. O’Connor was a pioneer in the derivatives business. When he left in 1995, he was running the US index market making operation. Erich has a BA in finance from Pace University. He put himself through night school by working at Paine Webber during the day as a bond interest clerk. Erich loves to stay active. He is a passionate skier and scuba diver, and he regularly competes in triathlons. His other interests include music and politics, but most importantly, he enjoys spending time with his wife, Jennifer, and their two children, Samantha and Zachary.