Mark Yakubov is an entrepreneur, investor, digital content creator, and former podcaster originally from Phoenix, Arizona. His career spans business ownership, startup investment, outsourcing, and digital media.
An early start
Yakubov began working at 14. In Italian restaurants, he worked as a busser, dishwasher, server, and cook. His early experience also included roles at Paradise Bakery and Walgreens.
He later worked as a dental assistant across several practices and as a pharmacy technician at Walgreens, gaining experience in both patient care and the daily demands of healthcare businesses.
Education & a change of direction
Yakubov earned a Bachelor of Science in biology from Arizona State University. Shortly after completing his undergraduate studies, he was accepted into Midwestern University’s pharmacy program. During orientation week, he withdrew after deciding that pharmacy was not the career he wanted to pursue.
He also considered a path into dentistry before choosing entrepreneurship. He went on to complete his studies at the Arizona School of Real Estate in Scottsdale while attending barber school part-time.
From the chair to business ownership
After earning his barber license, Yakubov worked behind the chair for several months before moving into barbershop ownership. He opened, operated, and closed multiple shops across central Phoenix, north Phoenix, and Scottsdale.
That experience brought together the practical responsibilities of running a business, from managing employees and day-to-day operations to making decisions about growth and when to move on.
Investment, ventures & leadership
Yakubov has since participated as a silent investor in startups and developed ventures in outsourcing and digital services. Across his entrepreneurial career, he has managed hundreds of employees and served on the executive boards of multiple organizations across the United States.
His work also includes digital content creation and podcasting. Among his technology projects is REVTHRUM, an automotive application developed through Yakubov Inc. He maintains a profile on Minnect, where people can connect with him directly.
Relationships & interests
Yakubov saw the barbershop as a place to build relationships as well as a business. Conversations with clients developed into a lasting network that includes 50 Cent, Bob Menery, Dana White, a former governor of Arizona, attorneys, and CEOs of Fortune 500 companies. He has maintained contact with people he met through that network, and has also done business with Menery and White.
Outside his business activities, Yakubov enjoys golf, another setting where he values conversation and meeting people.