The 66-year-old banking veteran, whose aggressive acquisition strategies rattled his industry, last month formed McColl Partners, an M&A boutique based in Charlotte, North Carolina, not far from BofA headquarters. “I have spent 42 years in the banking business,” says McColl. “I have spent most of those years either working on an acquisition team, leading acquisitions or financing acquisitions.” The investment banking business is lousy these days, but McColl says the new firm is already profitable, thanks to retainer fees paid by clients. The entrepreneurial life does require some adjustments. “I find I’m carrying my own bags,” he says. “And occasionally flying coach.”
