Richard V. Simone, III '24
president
EGN, LLC.
Award Profile
Courageous Thinking & Action
Rick Simone is a seasoned professional with an illustrious career spanning 29 years in the dynamic realms of marketing, hospitality, tourism, and events. His journey embodies a relentless passion for crafting unforgettable experiences and fostering meaningful connections within these vibrant industries.
As the President of EGN Consulting for the last 12 years Rick has been an ardent advocate for the power of strategic marketing, meaningful events, and the rebound of the hospitality and tourism industry in shaping the narrative of destinations and businesses alike. He oversees a client group that includes the Federal Hill Commerce Association, the Rhode Island Small Business Coalition, The Gloria Gemma Breast Cancer Resource Foundation, and several restaurant groups.
Vision & Innovation
Rick's vision and innovation during the COVID-19 pandemic exemplify his unwavering commitment to helping small businesses thrive. By leveraging digital solutions, exploring new revenue streams, and offering personalized support, he not only helped businesses weather the storm but also positioned them for long-term success in a rapidly evolving landscape.
His approach is rooted in building strong relationships and fostering a culture of trust and collaboration. By serving as a trusted advisor and advocate for his clients, he goes above and beyond to understand their goals and aspirations, developing tailored strategies to help them achieve success.
Inspiring Leadership
Throughout his career, Rick has been a driving force behind the success of numerous ventures, leveraging his expertise and passion to leave an indelible mark on the industries he holds dear. He has received the Providence Business News “40 Under 40” list of Rhode Island's most successful young businesspeople. Junior Achievement of RI has honored him with the Alumni Award, and The International Live Events Society has named him an MVP for his leadership in the Events Management industry. Most recently, Rick was named one of the “50 Most Influential People” in the Events Industry in the United States and Canada by Eventex.
Community Mindedness
Federal Hill in Providence holds great significance for Rick. Recognizing that small businesses are the lifeblood of any community, he has championed initiatives to promote Federal Hill's unique shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. Moreover, Rick understands the importance of collaboration and partnership in building a thriving community. He has worked closely with neighborhood associations, local government officials, and other key stakeholders to address issues ranging from safety concerns to infrastructure improvements. By fostering open communication and cooperation, Rick ensures that Federal Hill continues to evolve in a way that benefits residents and visitors alike.
Additionally, Rick serves on the boards of Junior Achievement of RI, Waterfire, The Providence Tourism Council, and Women & Infants Hospital Quality Care.
JA Mission Moment
”It all started when I participated in Junior Achievement's entrepreneurship programs during my high school years. This set the stage for my remarkable journey spanning 37 years of support for the organization. JA's initiatives have ignited a passion for entrepreneurship and community engagement that continues to shape my life and career.
Throughout my extensive tenure, I have held various leadership positions within Junior Achievement of Rhode Island, including Chairman of the Board. Beyond my leadership roles, I have been actively engaged in JA's mission, serving as a volunteer, mentor, and guest speaker in the JA Programs.
I enjoy volunteering my time in classrooms each year. Recently, I had the honor of sharing my career journey with fifth-grade students at Scott Elementary, in Warwick, highlighting the importance of showcasing entrepreneurship to local young people. This interaction exemplifies Rick's dedication to inspiring and empowering the next generation of entrepreneurs in his community.”