Jeffrey Berlin Bio

Jeff is the Founder & President of Bridge Industries. Jeff enjoys helping companies grow by providing ideas, insight and the resources—financial, infrastructure, and people—to help make that happen. Jeff relies on his team’s experience, identifying challenges that need to be addressed and developing clear solutions. After getting his accounting degree from Miami University of Ohio in 1984, and certification as a CPA, Jeff began his career at Parker Hannifin. After Parker he had the opportunity to gain valuable acquisition and operations experience with a merchant banker and manufacturer of consumer hardware products. In 1991 Jeff joined Hawk Corporation in Cleveland, starting in corporate development, then moving into a VP position over acquisitions and business development, and rising to become President and Board member. Jeff helped Hawk flourish from a $20M single-plant company to a $200M 16-plant global operation, which helped him form a passionate belief in the viability of American manufacturing, and it’s importance for job creation and economic growth. For over 35 years Jeff has been an active member of the community in Northeast Ohio, with consistent involvement in organizations like Big Brothers/Big Sisters, The Multiple Sclerosis Society, and Breakthrough Public Schools. At the MS Society Jeff became Board Chair and led major fundraisers, helping to increase funds for research and services. At Breakthrough Public Schools, Jeff has served for over 10 years on the Board, and he is passionate about the importance of education as the equalizer for minority and impoverished youth. In his spare time, Jeff likes to spend time with his family and stays active in whatever sports his body will allow at this stage. As a lifelong fan of Cleveland sports, he hopes to be around long enough to see championships in football and baseball.