Presented by: Irish America Magazine | The American Ireland Fund | University College Dublin

Denis P. KelleherChairman
Wall Street Access
Biography
Born in Ireland's County Kerry, Mr. Kelleher, CEO and founder of Wall Street Access, a leading independent firm specializing in institutional research, trading and money management, emigrated to America at the age of 18 and later served in the U.S. military. Like many before him he came here seeking a better life -- armed only with a strong determination to succeed in his new homeland. By all accounts it was a wise decision that would culminate in a distinguished career in business and finance and enable him to form personal relationships with such legendary figures as Warren Buffett. Not bad for a man who began his Wall Street career at Merrill Lynch as a messenger.
Mr. Kelleher later progressed through the ranks at Merrill and held several operational positions at the firm. He was also one of the founders of Ruane Cunniff & Co., Inc., an SEC-registered investment advisor and NYSE member firm and also served as Vice President and Treasurer of the renowned Sequoia Fund from 1970-76.
Mr. Kelleher, who has over 40 years of experience in the securities industry, has maintained strong ties with his native land and is an adviser to the Prime Minister. His father was a shoemaker by trade and the family placed a strong emphasis on education. Perhaps it is fitting that he served as Chairman of the Board of St. John's University, his alma mater. Mr. Kelleher is also Director of the New Ireland Fund, Inc. He is a graduate of St. Brendans College and St. Johns University and has been the recipient of numerous awards.