How to go out on your own and leave a corporate gig and salary behind

After two decades of climbing the corporate ladder, Robin Hazel waved goodbye to a promising career and went into business for himself. He shares the story of his gutsy decision — and why it worked.

Mark Wemple. Robin Hazel owns and operates BrightStar Care’s Pinellas County franchise.
Mark Wemple. Robin Hazel owns and operates BrightStar Care’s Pinellas County franchise.
  • Entrepreneurs
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As entrepreneurs go, Robin Hazel is what you might call a late bloomer. He spent 21 years with Univar, an Illinois-based chemical distribution company, and became one of the company’s top executives, overseeing a $100 million budget and operations in Florida, Georgia and Puerto Rico.

 

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