Bill's Next Thrill: A Directorship?
from Spring 1999
by Justin Martin
Bill Clinton has a fan in Harry Gruber. Whenever and whyever the president leaves office, Gruber would be delighted to have him join his board. He’d gladly take Hillary as well.
Gruber, 46, is founder and CEO of Intervue, a small San Diego firm (projected 1998 revenues, $1.7 million) that delivers Internet-compatible video and audio clips. Its six-person board includes Ed David, a former science adviser to Presidents Nixon and Ford. Gruber met the Clintons in 1997 following commencement exercises at the University of California at San Diego.
Gruber says the First Couple’s connections would be invaluable in drumming up new customers in the government, military—and media. He also thinks the president might lend valuable perspective. “He’s been through a lot of adversity. People learn from their mistakes. He’d bring a lot of wisdom.”
This may be Clinton’s only offer. Corporate Board Member contacted a couple dozen other corporations and failed to find any that want him as a director, even in his home state. ”Our board members are typically business people familiar with the poultry industry,” said Tyson Foods Chairman John Tyson through a spokesman. “Not retired politicians.”
