Leonard M. Tannenbaum, CFA
Founder of TCG

Leonard M. Tannenbaum, CFA, is the Founder of TCG/Tannenbaum Capital Group, an alternative investment firm specializing in private credit, real estate lending, and strategic general partnerships. With a central focus on credit for over three decades, Len has accumulated vast experience, having underwritten billions in loans, and led numerous companies to public offerings. His expertise extends to permanent capital vehicles and various special purpose vehicles (SPVs) such as BDCs, Hedge Funds, and CLOs.

At the age of 27, Len embarked on his entrepreneurial journey by establishing Fifth Street Capital from a humble two-room office in White Plains, NY. Under his leadership, Fifth Street Capital evolved into a nationwide alternative credit asset manager with offices across Palo Alto, Chicago, and Greenwich. Managing $5 billion in assets across multiple private investment vehicles and publicly traded companies, Fifth Street played a pivotal role in providing flexible capital solutions to emerging middle-market businesses. Following the sale to Oaktree Capital Management in 2017, Len founded his family office, overseeing capital allocation across diverse strategies.

Raised on Long Island by a Cuban exile mother and a father who served as the managing partner of a law firm, Len’s upbringing instilled in him a strong drive for success. A graduate of The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, he holds a B.S. in Economics and an MBA in Finance as part of the sub-matriculation program. Additionally, he is a Chartered Financial Analyst. In 2013, Len was honored with the M&A Advisor Lifetime Achievement and Leadership Award and inducted into the M&A Advisor Hall of Fame.

As a proud Cuban American, Len actively contributes to various initiatives, including serving as a member of the US Senate Republican Task Force on Hispanic Affairs Under Senator Orrin Hatch, and participating in the pro-business Cuban Chamber of Commerce. Len is affiliated with esteemed organizations such as The Wharton Graduate Executive Board, Young Presidents Organization, Family Office Principals Group, and Menorah Partners. A dedicated philanthropist, he is particularly passionate about wildlife preservation, children’s welfare, and fostering an entrepreneurial mindset.

His philanthropic efforts extend to supporting organizations such as The Jewish Federation of Palm Beach, The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, Yo Soy Ella, P.A. CASA (Pennsylvania Court Appointed Special Advocates for Children), Corners Outreach, Chess in the Schools, and The Palm Beach Zoo and Conservation Society.