Awenate Cobbina

CEO, Bedrock Group LP
Chair, MEDC Executive Committee

CURRENT FOCUS

Awenate Cobbina is the CEO of Bedrock Group LP, an investment firm primarily focused on retail and consumer-facing companies, including Detroit-based Shinola. In his current role, Awenate advises all of Bedrock Group LP’s current operating companies and leads new investments.

PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND

Previously, Awenate was the Vice President of Public and Business Affairs for Palace Sports & Entertainment (PS&E) and the Detroit Pistons, as well as the Executive Director of the Detroit Pistons Foundation. In those roles, Awenate worked on PS&E’s business deals, including the Pistons move to Detroit, and all aspects of the Foundation, including fundraising, grantmaking, and reporting to the Foundation’s Board.

Earlier in his career, he served almost six years in the White House, including roles in the Chief of Staff's Office, Office of Legislative Affairs, and Office of Management and Budget. Immediately, prior to joining PS&E and the Pistons Foundation, Awenate served as Special Assistant to the President and Policy Advisor to the Office of the Chief of Staff, where he worked with senior White House staff and Administration officials to manage policy development, design strategy, and implement plans on a broad range of issues and initiatives.

EDUCATION/PERSONAL

Awenate attended Emory University and the Howard University School of Law, and also previously worked at the National Football League, Weil, Gotshal and Manges LLP, and the National Labor Relations Board in legal and policy roles.