Ben Cockrell
Director
Drive
Ben Cockrell
Director
Suite 300
Austin TX 78746
About
Ben, originally from Tallahassee, completed his undergraduate degree at Florida State University. He then served as a Logistics Officer in the U.S. Army, where he cultivated key values such integrity, honor, courage, candor, and discipline. After leaving the Army as a Captain, he relocated to New Orleans and took up the position of purchasing and stores manager at the International Paper Bogalusa Mill facility. In this role, he was responsible for sourcing all goods and services, including overseeing projects worth over $200MM, encompassing construction, capex, and maintenance services. Simultaneously, he completed an executive MBA with a concentration in Finance from Tulane University.
Presently, at Benchmark International, Mr. Cockrell's role entails gaining deep insight into business owners' growth and exit strategies. This enables him to develop innovative solutions that maximize the business value of these owners. Leveraging his procurement experience within a manufacturing organization, he offers a unique operational perspective on the challenges faced by small businesses. Drawing upon his experience as an Army Captain, he brings a profound sense of purpose, direction, and motivation to assist business owners in accomplishing their mission and achieving their strategic objectives.
Skills
Business Strategy, Capital Allocation, Critical Thinking, Problem Solving, Sales, Marketing, Customer Service, Communication, Leadership, Team Building, Strategic Sourcing, Working Capital Management, Risk Management, Capital Allocation, Contract Negotiation, Accounting, Manufacturing
Candor
Loyal
experience
Ben possesses a wealth of experience in both the military and corporate sectors, providing him with a distinctive perspective. During his tenure as a logistics officer in the US Army, he held comprehensive responsibilities encompassing supply chain activities, such as sourcing government contracts, asset management, and personnel management. Furthermore, in his role as a purchasing manager at International Paper, Ben actively engaged with numerous small and local businesses, skillfully negotiating prices, terms, and conditions for a diverse range of requirements, including facility HVAC services, maintenance agreements, construction projects, and repair parts. He assumed accountability for effectively managing a warehouse, specifically the Mill Store, which housed repair and maintenance parts valued at over $34 million, crucial for supporting smooth facility operations.
With his involvement in negotiations with businesses of all sizes, Ben developed a unique perspective on the competitive landscape faced by these entities. As a key customer for small businesses, he familiarized himself with their marketing and sales strategies. Ben's decision to join Benchmark International stemmed from his desire for a career that stimulated his intellectual curiosity, provided continuous personal growth opportunities, and allowed him to assist others along the way. At Benchmark International, he finds fulfillment in helping clients achieve their business goals, aligning perfectly with his own aspirations.
education
Florida State University - Political Science
Tulane University - Master of Business Administration, concentration in Finance
Passion
Ben believes the American dream was founded on the backs of small business and the bedrock of the world economy lies within the middle to lower market. He is honored to work with business owners and assist them in achieving their strategic goals. He believes working with Benchmark International enables these business to achieve their dreams in ways no other firm can match.
charity
Ben is a volunteer of the United Way of South East Louisiana and has served on the International Paper John Willis golf tournament planning committee.