Blair Baker

Chief Investment Officer

98|23 Capital’s Chief Investment Officer, Blair Baker has been managing Precept Capital, a long-short hedge fund manager since 1998. Before founding Precept, Blair served as a principal and highly successful Portfolio Manager at John McStay Investment Counsel, focusing on small-cap growth stocks.

Blair also worked as a Portfolio Manager and research analyst at Friess Associates and as an equity research analyst at Rauscher, Pierce, Refsnes, specializing in the technology sector. Blair holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Sciences from the University of Texas and an MBA from Southern Methodist University.

Nick Roossien, CPA

Chief Operating Financial Officer

Nick is the Chief Operating Financial Officer, and is in charge of the back office of 9823 Capital and Precept Capital Management.

Previously, Nick worked as an independent forensic accountant for five years. In that capacity, he worked for court appointed Receivers and the United States Department of Justice in matters involving securities fraud and money laundering.

Nick also worked for BroadbandNOW! Inc. from 1998 to 2001. The company provided high-speed internet service over a nationwide network to properties in over 20 markets.

Nick was an auditor at KPMG, LLP from 1997 to 1999.

Nick earned a Masters in Professional Accounting (1997) and a BA in Economics (1995) from the University of Texas at Austin.

Marshall McKinney

Strategy and Research Lead

Since April 2022, Marshall has led investment strategy R&D and implementation at 9823 Capital/Precept Capital Management, serving as the domestic liaison for the global quantitative engineering team. He was previously the Managing Director of Voyager Capital (2020-2022), a Dallas-based investment firm raising capital for project and portfolio companies.

From 2015 to 2020, he showed his entrepreneurial side by founding and presiding over The Dunk Collection, an NBA/NCAA licensed home goods company, later licensed to Vat19. Marshall holds a B.S. degree with a finance minor from The University of Arizona.

Stephanie Pape

Trading and Middle Office Lead

Stephanie Pape is the Trading and Middle Office Lead, providing her expertise to both 9823 Capital and Precept Capital Management. With a strong background in trade execution, portfolio reconciliation, and end-of-day reporting, Stephanie plays a pivotal role in the success of both firms.

Her dedication and skills have made her an invaluable asset in the finance industry. Stephanie's work spans across multiple organizations, where she leverages her experience and knowledge to drive operational efficiency and build strong relationships with brokers and administrators. Stephanie graduated from the University of Dayton.

Blake Copeland

Systems Architecture Lead

Blake is a seasoned tech lead and an integral part of the Precept machine. His primary role involves spearheading the development of cutting-edge automated trading systems, while also overseeing the advancement of Precept's development team. He is responsible for ongoing research, implementation, and testing of technological frameworks that drive the heart of Precept's operations.

With an impressive track record spanning over 14 years in the technology sector, Blake brings a wealth of expertise to the table. His past endeavors include assuming the role of lead developer for a diverse set of iOS applications, showcasing his prowess in crafting innovative and user-friendly interfaces. He has also served as an engineering lead in the domain of game development, managing a team of over 25 developers.

Blake's dedication to pushing the boundaries of technology and his strategic guidance contribute significantly to Precept's ongoing success and technological advancement.

Kathryn Sumner

Operations

Kathryn Sumner is in Operations. In conjunction with Chief Operating Financial Officer, Nick Roossien, her role includes the oversight of all necessary legal requirements by ensuring that ethical standards are maintained. Kathryn aids in the maintenance of books and records in relation to company policies as well as industry standards.

She strives to go above and beyond regarding the implementation of the companies’ compliance programs. Kathryn holds a B.S. in Business Management from Palm Beach Atlantic University.