In the high-stakes worlds of sports and business, few have managed to navigate both arenas with the same level of distinction as Kevin Richards. A former soccer star turned business leader, Richards exemplifies how athletic prowess can translate into corporate acumen.
A Distinguished Career on the Soccer Field
Richards’ journey to success began on the soccer fields of Bermuda, where his natural talent and determination saw him qualify for Bermuda’s under 17 national team as the youngest member.
The tenacity Richards showed in his early years in Bermuda and his impressive performances while attending St. Andrew’s College boarding school in Canada, earned him an athletics scholarship to the University of Notre Dame in 2000. One of the smallest members of the team, expectations were low when Richards joined the university, but he quickly showed that like his small island, he was able to punch above his weight class and he quickly became a standout player for the Fighting Irish. Known for his versatility, Richards played as a defender and midfielder.
Chad Riley, head coach at the University of Notre Dame, stated “Kevin was an outstanding soccer player during his time at Notre Dame. He was a modern full-back, equally adept at defending and attacking at a high level. As the midfielder playing in front of him, the team always felt confident pushing forward, knowing he could cover anything behind me.
Unfortunately, Kevin's professional career was cut short by an untimely injury, and it coincided with a period when professional soccer in the U.S. was still in its early stages. With only 8-10 MLS teams at the time and the USL Championship not yet fully established, opportunities to break into a pro team in the U.S. were scarce. A team in Scotland was ready to sign Kevin, but the timing of his injury really hindered that chance.
If Kevin were playing today, he would have enjoyed a long professional career in the game and earned even more accolades than he already has,” concluded Riley.
His college career was nothing short of stellar. Richards was elected co-captain of the team in his senior year and led the team to the Big East Championship in 2003, scoring the winning goal against St. John’s University in the finals. His prowess did not go unnoticed, and in 2004, he made history by becoming the first student-athlete from Notre Dame to be drafted in the Major League Soccer (MLS) Superdraft.
Richards was injured while representing his beloved country of Bermuda. Despite this set-back, Kevin Richards continued to play internationally, while starting a full-time career in the insurance industry. Richards played pivotal role in two World Cup qualification campaigns, showcasing his skills on a global stage.
His time as a professional athlete instilled in him a deep understanding of teamwork, discipline, and resilience — traits that would become the foundation of his success in the corporate world.
The Making of a Thought Leader
After retiring from professional soccer, Kevin Richards transitioned into the business world with the same drive and focus that fuelled his athletic career. Today, he is the Managing Director of Bermuda Asset Management, where he provides expert advisory services to family offices, investment funds, and businesses dedicated to renewable energy and the blue economy.
Moreover, Richards is the founder of Bermuda Global Holdings Ltd., a company designed to accelerate Bermuda’s sustainable transition as part of Richards’ broader commitment to building a thriving, innovative island ecosystem.
Richards is also the founder of the Island SDG Impact Fund, which focuses on early-stage disruptive technology companies.
Leadership Beyond Business
Kevin Richards’ influence extends far beyond his corporate roles. He is a certified Director and a member of the UK’s Institute of Directors. In 2023, he graduated from the prestigious New York cohort of the Black Boardroom Initiative.
Richards’ serves as Founder and Chairperson of the Bermuda Innovation & Technology Association and a board member of several prestigious organizations.
A Legacy of Excellence
Richards’ journey from the soccer pitch to the boardroom is a narrative of seamless transition and unwavering excellence. A husband and father of two young boys, his legacy is further underscored by his distinguished family lineage, which includes notable leaders such as Sir Edward Trenton Richards, Bermuda’s first Premier, the Honorable Gertrude Eastmond, the first female member of Parliament in Barbados, and his father, the Honorable Everard Trenton Richards, former Deputy Premier and Minister of Finance of Bermuda.
Kevin Richards stands as a testament to the power of versatility. His story is not just about success in sports or business; it’s about the ability to excel in any arena with discipline, leadership, and vision. As he continues to break new ground in business, Richards remains an inspiring figure for aspiring athletes and entrepreneurs alike.
Media Contact
Company Name: Bermuda Innovation & Technology Association
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Country: United States
Website: https://bermudaasset.com/
