Ted Kirk, vice president, strategic partnerships, Advanced Fraud Solutions
Age: 32
Work address: 4100 Mendenhall Oaks Parkway, Suite 255, High Point 27265
City you live in: Winston-Salem
Education: Bachelor's, economics, UNC-Chapel Hill
Why selected: In his role as vice president of strategic partnerships for Advanced Fraud Solutions, Kirk manages the company's integration and channel partnership program, as well as marketing and support. Since 2016, Kirk has grown AFS' channel revenue by almost 500% with software integration and resale partnerships.
How can the Triad better retain young and talented professionals? Thousands of dynamic young people graduate from Triad colleges and universities each year — the question is how do we keep them here? Our region is such a hidden gem — we have an unbeatable combination of a relatively low cost-of-living with an extremely high quality of life. Our thriving arts community, world-class health care, excellent academic institutions, and burgeoning afterwork scene bring about a recipe for growth. There is no shortage of successful businesses and individuals, that are invested in helping our region thrive. Many of the changes brought about by the pandemic should be tailwinds for us. Young professionals have more flexibility than ever in their choice of where to live — why not the Triad? We've already come a long way. Growing up in Winston-Salem, I never would have anticipated moving back to town at this stage in my career. But, here we are, and my wife and I couldn't be happier. To continue trending in the right direction, ramping up the focus on bringing startups and other growth-sector businesses to the region is key. Winston Starts and the Innovation Quarter are both prime examples of the type of development that will help take the Triad to the next level.
Most meaningful volunteer activity? I’m involved in several organizations that allow me the opportunity to serve as a personal mentor for young men, as they make the transition to adulthood and try to "figure it all out." It's truly a gift to be able to listen to their stories, and encourage them as they build self-reliance.
I am passionate about ... travel. My growing family (we just welcomed our first child into the world back in August 2020), Tar Heel athletics, golf (my passion level far exceeds my skill level) and second chances.
A fun fact people may not know about you? I unexpectedly became the key prop of a magic show in Las Vegas. No photos were allowed, but I still have the playing cards, ramen noodle packet and $100 bill to prove it.
Tell us about a talent you are most proud of. I've played the drums since I was about 11 years old, and was extremely passionate about it throughout my adolescent/young adult years, playing on the drum line, in rock bands, etc. My interest waned considerably in my 20s, but I actually just got my old set —Ziljian cymbal(s) and all — from my parents' house and set it up in my garage, so I'm excited to get back into it. I’m a little rusty, so I’d say my wife has “mixed feelings” about listening to me bang around. And I have to pick my spots so I don't wake up our infant son from his naps.
Have you displayed your talent publicly? I have, but not since the early 2000s. Maybe 2021 is the year I make it big!
What television show or movie would be best suited to demonstrate your talent and why? "Almost Famous"
If you could meet anyone in the world, who would you like to meet? Michael Jordan
