Billy Downing is regarded as an expert in international college admissions counseling, having coached and guided families around the globe for over a decade. His reputation as a straight-talking, caring and insightful mentor has helped build ESM’s domestic and international practices into an industry leader.

Billy has an extensive background in real estate development, finance, education reform and youth sports organizations. He started his professional career working as an analyst for Sacramento Pacific Partners, before then moving to an associate position at investment brokerage giant CB Richard Ellis. Downing then spent several years with PFF Bank & Trust helping to start their Northern California division, eventually growing their portfolio to over $700M in assets before being acquired by U.S. Bank.

He applied his corporate experience to education reform, college counseling and enhancing youth sports across the globe in hopes of making a positive impact for students. ESM Group is his way of reaching more students in more places. He is an avid reader, writer, blogger and world traveler. Downing is often found giving presentations on the college process in places like Tokyo, Chicago, Dubai, San Francisco, Yuba City and everywhere in between.

Billy sits on the boards of The YMCA of Superior California, The Positive Coaching Alliance, Education NOW! Foundation, The San Juan Educational Foundation and the Entrepreneurial Organization Sacramento Chapter. He holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of California, Berkeley, and a masters degree in Sport Management from the University of San Francisco. Downing is a graduate of the prestigious all-boys prep school, Jesuit High School in Sacramento, California.

His latest book, College Quest: The Path to Your Top Choice School, will be released in March 2011.

Contact info:
bdowning@esmcollege.com • Direct: 916.801.0603