Jimmy Dunne, Piper Sandler Vice Chairman & Senior Managing Principal—Anticipate the Needs of Others

How Leaders Lead with David Novak

Today’s guest is Jimmy Dunne. He’s the Vice Chairman and Senior Managing Principal at Piper Sandler. He was one of the founders of Sandler O'Neill + Partners which was acquired by Piper Jaffray in 2020.

He is renowned for how he led his firm in the wake of the 9/11 attacks on the World Trade Center. Sixty-six of his associates tragically died that day, including the firm’s founder Herman Sandler and Jimmy’s best friend Chris Quackenbush.

Jimmy made the incredible decision early on in the wake of the attacks that the firm needed to provide for the families of fallen associates, including a college education for every child who lost a parent.

Jimmy’s ability to anticipate the needs of others not only helped him lead through the crisis, but also helped him prepare for that awful day before it even arrived. And it’s a wonderful reminder for all of us to look out for the people we serve by thinking about what they need even before they do.

It’s such a privilege to talk to Jimmy today and I know you are going to be so inspired by his incredible empathy and humility.

You’ll also learn:

• An honest reflection on what it was like to lead after the devastating losses his firm suffered in the 9/11 attacks
• What to rely on when you’re not feeling confident or at your best
• The importance of responsibility, especially in tough situations
• What you should never do when you make a mistake – and what to do instead