David Babcock
Growing up in Old Greenwich, Connecticut, Dave Babcock has always had the desire to contribute to the area’s economic development as well as an interest in giving back and helping people. After graduating high school from Southfield Academy, he earned his Bachelor of Science in geology and geography from Denison University. In 1989, he founded Babcock Environmental Engineering, where he prepared consulting reports for some of Connecticut’s public school systems and various real estate businesses. In 2006, at the age of 43 and with more than 20 years of work experience, Babcock decided to enroll in Harvard Business School’s Owner/President Management (OPM) program.
Looking for a career change, he joined his family’s business, Five Star Products, Inc., a manufacturer of high-performance cement and epoxy products. In 1997, he was named Director of Manufacturing and Quality Control. He became CEO and President in 2002. Leading a successful turnaround of the company through difficult times, Babcock was responsible for bringing in new senior management and creating the company’s first strategic plan. As a result, the company doubled in sales over six years and saw a 21 percent annual EBITDA return during eight years. Through his experiences, Babcock developed a sense of comfort working with customers, operations staff, and board members, as well as business partners throughout the world.
Satisfied with all of his accomplishments with Five Star Products, Babcock resigned from the company and began a new journey. His father passed away from Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease, igniting Babcock’s interest in the healthcare industry. When his mom was ill several years ago and he and his siblings were taking care of her in shifts, Babcock quickly developed many of the skills and tools that caretakers possess. The family eventually decided they needed in-home care for their mother, but they had difficulty finding the right caregiver. That was Dave’s “a-ha” moment – he realized this is an industry where he could make an impact.
While searching for his next career, a franchise consultant informed Babcock about Right at Home. After researching the company, Babcock saw an opportunity to make an impact with Right at Home, a company that truly catered to and cared for its patients. He decided quickly that this was his next calling. Babcock consulted with an old friend, Brian Gilbert, to help with the day-to-day operations, and before he knew it, Babcock signed with Right at Home.
Babcock is a Board Member of the Red Cross of Connecticut and is married to his wife, Kim. He has three children – Stephanie, 19; Alyssa, 17; and Robbie, 12.
How did you find out about Right at Home?
I was contacted by a franchise consultant who knew my profile and brought the opportunity to me. I was unsure about franchising, but after learning about Right at Home, I saw a lot of opportunity and plenty of room for growth.
Why did you choose an opportunity with Right at Home?
After I met with the people of Right at Home and saw their professionalism, it was a done deal. They were personable, and I saw they truly cared. The culture of helping people added to the mix, as well.
What personal experience do you have in your own family with caring for a senior?
My father passed away from Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s; going through that was very difficult. However, getting to know the industry took place when my siblings and I took care of my mother and realized we could not be there 24 hours a day, seven days a week. When I was taking care of my mom, I realized the amount of work it took and grew to greatly respect the caregiver side of things.
Please list any nonprofit organizations, community groups, volunteer activities, etc. you are/have been involved with:
I am on the Board of the Red Cross of Connecticut