Early Life and Education
Orlando Bravo was born in Mayagüez, Puerto Rico. In his early teens, he moved to Florida to pursue a tennis career, attending the Nick Bollettieri Tennis Academy. He later returned to Puerto Rico to attend high school before moving on to Brown University, where he graduated with a B.A. in economics and political science in 1992. Bravo furthered his education at Stanford University, earning a J.D. from Stanford Law School and an M.B.A. from Stanford Graduate School of Business.
Rise to Success
Bravo began his professional career in mergers and acquisitions at Morgan Stanley. In 1997, he joined Thoma Bravo's predecessor firm, and by age 30, he became a partner. Under his leadership, Thoma Bravo has become one of the top technology buyout firms in the United States, completing over 200 software and technology acquisitions, representing billions in enterprise value. His strategic approach and expertise in software buyouts have significantly influenced the tech industry.
Key Business Strategies
Bravo's investment strategy focuses on three core elements: building strong partnerships, acquiring strategic software companies, and improving their operational performance. His firm adopts a "Buy and Build" strategy, consolidating fragmented sectors to create market leaders. This approach involves tight governance and a hands-on approach to quickly identify areas for improvement within the acquired companies.
Philanthropy
Bravo is actively involved in philanthropy, particularly in Puerto Rico. He is the Founder and Chairman of the Bravo Family Foundation, which focuses on promoting entrepreneurship and economic development on the island. In 2019, he committed $100 million to the Foundation's Rising Entrepreneurs Program (REP) to support early-stage startups. He has also provided significant funding for humanitarian and relief efforts following hurricanes Maria (2017) and Fiona (2022). He is also involved in various other philanthropic causes.
