This month we are spotlighting Anthony (Tony) Ellis, V-Soft's General Counsel. Tony joined the V-Soft Family after working in Kentucky state government and has been a positive and key member of the Louisville Team. His sense of humor and passion to drive the company forward are nothing short of inspiring and we are so grateful to have him. We sat down with Tony to learn more about his time with V-Soft so far and his world outside the office.
What Brought You to V-Soft and What is Your Experience In?
I joined V-Soft after learning about the company in my previous role in state government with the Cabinet for Economic Development. As V-Soft is one of Kentucky’s largest and fastest-growing tech companies, we wanted to make sure that we were connected to ensure they had the resources they needed. As I got to know the management and leadership, and particularly Purna and Radhika Veer (V-Soft President and CEO), it became clear that they had a great business with significant upside growth opportunity, and we became friends.
It was clear how much they cared for their employees and the communities where they did business and were focused on building and maintaining a culture people really wanted to be a part of. When the opportunity presented itself to join the company, it was an easy decision.
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Tony and his wife (far left) enjoying dinner with the V-Soft executive team.
Any Interesting Stories in Your Line of Work?
There are tons of interesting stories in this line of work, but as a lawyer, they are mostly confidential. One that stands out was in my earlier days as a lawyer in New York. We represented a large financial institution in a case against some very wealthy borrowers who defaulted on a $50 million loan, and they asserted some serious counterclaims against the bank. After a number of international trips (including seizing a Rembrandt painting in a chase across Europe), we won the case. By the time we did, the borrowers’ financial situation had improved substantially, everyone shook hands, and they all went back into business together.
Lesson learned: You never know how things will turn out, so try to maintain good relationships, even with your adversaries.
What Do You Enjoy Doing in Your Free Time?
I have a toddler so “free time” is hard to get by these days, but my family and I love gardening, hiking, traveling, food safaris, cheesy mystery books, theme parties, and supporting Kentucky’s bourbon industry.
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Tony and his wife, Laura, hiking in Croatia (left) and Tony's daughter, Ainsley, on Spring Break playing dress up (right).
Tony and his friends at his annual summer party. This year was Magnum PI themed!
What's a Fun Fact About Yourself?
I have spent at least one night in 48 states and 20 countries.
Tony and a friend at the Vienna Christmas Market, ChristkindlMarkt.
Any Favorite Things to Do in Louisville?
My family and I love Cherokee Park. It’s a local park designed by Olmstead that has something for everyone – dog park, playground, 3 mile running loop, hiking trails, mountain biking trails, and lots of places to picnic and relax.
