Along with serving as co-managing partner of Weil’s Dallas office, Courtney Marcus is a partner in its banking and finance practice and a member of its firm-wide management committee. A consummate dealmaker, she helps private equity firms, public and private companies, and other investors execute a wide variety of financial transactions. Clients include Centerbridge Partners, AMC Entertainment, WPX Energy, The Sterling Group, and EP Energy Corp.
Education: St. Mary’s University (JD), Vanderbilt University (BA)
Birthplace: San Antonio
First Job: “I was a camp counselor and swimming instructor for preschool-aged boys. I learned the art of multitasking, which has served me well.”
Advice From 18-year-old Me: “Be authentic. Making professional connections is no different than making any other kind of friend. Sharing your personal and professional goals with others will help get you there.”
Toughest Challenge: “The war on talent places an even greater emphasis on the importance of people in a service business. We have incredibly talented attorneys and staff at Weil, so we’re the first stop for many firms entering the Dallas market. Combatting the external hiring pressure on our people and maintaining our firm culture are things I think about daily.”
What I Love: “I collect picture frames. I love being surrounded by photographs of special moments.”
Nonprofit Cause: “I’m passionate about ballet. Texas Ballet Theater, the resident professional ballet company for the Winspear Opera House and Bass Performance Hall, is one of the jewels of our region.”
Scary Moment: “Crawling through the pitch-black Cu Chi Tunnels in Vietnam was pretty scary.”
Fun Fact: “I’m a tomboy. I grew up bird hunting and saltwater fishing with my father. Getting outdoors is definitely the way I recharge.”
Favorite Movie: “It’s too hard to pick one. I always watch The Shawshank Redemption, Almost Famous, The Holiday, Pretty Woman, and Something’s Gotta Give, if they’re on.”
Destinations of Choice: “My favorite places have sandy beaches and salty air. I’m as happy in Port Aransas as I am anywhere fancier.”
Last Meal: “I’d have a vodka martini straight up with three olives, prime rib medium-rare, a double-stuffed potato, and grilled asparagus, with dark chocolate ice cream to finish.”
Bucket List: “I’d like to jump out of an airplane (with a parachute).”
This Q&A is extended content from Dallas 500, a special edition produced by D CEO that profiles the region’s most influential business leaders. Visit www.dallas500.com for details.
