Bill Stewart – Founder, First Street
Bill Stewart brings over 30 years of experience working with people, companies, strategy, and financial transactions. At the core of his work is a unique ability to analyze complex opportunities, synthesize information quickly, and develop clear, actionable strategies that deliver results. These skills are particularly valuable when working with emerging and middle-market companies—organizations that serve as the engine of American entrepreneurship, innovation, and job creation.
Bill founded First Street to align his passions with his professional experience. First Street partners with entrepreneurs and owners of growing businesses to help them navigate the challenges of business transition.
“First Street challenges me in every transaction to find the best solution for both the company and the people involved. It draws on everything I’ve learned throughout my career—strategy, finance, leadership, and a deep commitment to client outcomes.”
Bill is known for his integrity, persistence, and results-driven mindset. He is a trusted advisor, connector, and advocate who is deeply committed to helping his clients succeed. His approach is characterized by responsiveness, compassion, and a forward-looking hope for future generations.
Before launching First Street, Bill founded and was a Management Consultant with Advance Leadership Development, where he helped companies align people, processes, and performance with strategic goals. He previously started and sold two executive search firms and founded a commercial real estate venture focused on workforce housing in the Portsmouth, New Hampshire area.
Earlier in his career, Bill developed his financial acumen at JP Morgan Chase, where he worked on private banking and middle-market commercial transactions. He completed both the firm’s Corporate Finance Credit Training Program and its Management Development Program. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business with a concentration in Finance from Boston University.
Bill lives in New Castle, New Hampshire with his wife and three children. Bill currently serves as Chairman of the Selectman, Chairman of the Conservation Commission and a member of the Town Budget Committee. He and his wife are active supporters of nonprofit organizations, and he previously served on the Board of Trustees for The Nature Conservancy in New Hampshire.