Alumni Profiles
Man on the Move Motivated by New Challenges
When George Hertz ’69 (government, now political science), ’73 (MPA) assumed his new role on May 1 as chief of staff for Massport’s CEO and Executive Director Thomas J. Kinton, Jr., he will have realized his eleventh major career move—and his second stint with Massport. “My work life has been one of change, with many different levels of responsibility,” Hertz says. “My goals are consistent. I am eager to learn new things and to make contributions. At this point in my life, I am very proud to be back in public service.”
Hertz acknowledges that had he been asked when he graduated from UMass Amherst to envision what he’d be doing 35 years later; his answer wouldn’t have come close to reality. “I thought my career would be always in public service,” he says, thinking back to his first jobs in the Massachusetts Executive Office of Human Services and Department of Mental Health. “When I became budget director for the Commonwealth, I was able to bring in changes and innovations, like the first computers for state budgeting. It was an exciting time in my life. That drove me to look for new challenges, to begin exploring the private sector.”
It’s probably an understatement to say that Hertz only looked. Essentially, he dove in headfirst. His resume tells the story of being on the cutting edge of innovation: vice president and project manager with Zip Call, a wireless communication company; serving as president of Phase One Development Corporation that established the Tweeter Center; senior project manager at Fidelity Investments, where among his accomplishments he developed a plan for a nationwide wireless communication company; president of Advanced Mobilcomm, a Fidelity Capital Company that developed, owned and operated specialized mobile radio communications systems which eventually became part of Nextel; president and CEO of Boston Communications Group, a leader in creating technological solutions for wireless services that he ultimately took public; and managing director and senior vice president at Fidelity Capital of Boston with a focus on doing new things that created long-term value.
“But after all those years, it was time to give something back to the public,” Hertz says, “and so after 9/11 when the opportunity came along to be executive vice president of Massport, it seemed like a good fit.” Hertz’s role for the next four years was internally focused, to achieve a more business-oriented approach to Massport’s operations and facilities and to support the CEO. “We instituted a lot of changes, including a business-oriented P and L (profit and loss) management style,” says Hertz. “We focused first and foremost on security, safety and customer service. To be successful as a facilitator for process management,” Hertz explains, “you have to put your ego in the drawer. It’s all about helping others flourish.”
And now, after serving as Vice President of Operations in the Homeland Security Division of L-3 Communications, Hertz has chosen to return to Massport as chief of staff. Kinton is enthusiastic about Hertz joining his team, “I know from working with George in the past that his detailed understanding of Massport and its needs, along with his wide experience, will help me make sure that Massport operates in a sound business manner.” Hertz says, “At this stage in my career, it’s time to meet the challenge of the public sector once again. I want my son to see me working for the public, contributing to a community as a responsible citizen.”
When asked about achieving balance in his life, Hertz paused briefly before stating unequivocally: “The most important thing in my life is my family – my wife and my thirteen-year-old son, and my Airedale terrier who rules our house. My wife, who is a breast cancer survivor, has given me a lot of guidance and has taught me how to balance family and work. At the end of the day, I look forward to going home. I don’t want to miss things that go on with my family, and I definitely want my son to know I am there for him.”
Hertz says he’s a big believer in public education. “Both of my parents completed their higher education later in life. I was in high school when my mother received her doctorate degree from UMass Amherst, and Dad was 65 years old when he received his master’s of science in public health. My work ethic comes from them, but UMass gave me access. It was a terrific opportunity, being exposed to kids from all over. Back then, I was pretty wet behind the ears and not very street smart. I studied very hard – probably too hard. To today’s students I’d suggest they have focus and drive, but also have some fun.”
The College of Social and Behavioral Science reached out to Hertz some years ago to serve on the Center for Public Policy and Administration’s Advisory Board. “John Hird, who was the director at the time [and now is Chair of Political Science Department], fascinates me. And I serve with Henry Barr ’68 who also is chair of the Dean’s Advisory Board. I love being reconnected to UMass Amherst, and being a spokesperson. It’s great to see the reinvigoration that is happening under Chancellor Lombardi – the growth reminds me of what was happening in the sixties. So, when Henry asked me to serve on the Dean’s board as well, I felt privileged to step up to the next level of opportunity.”
May 31, 2007
