" Whereas Victor G. Atiyeh was a successful businessman prior to embarking upon a career of public service ," reads the second in a laundry list of clauses that make up the preamble of  House Resolution 5 , passed in 2009 to honor Atiyeh. President of the family business, Atiyeh Bros., Inc., before the age of 25, Atiyeh was pushed into leadership early. His experience in business stood him in good stead during his time in public office, when he implemented government efficiency initiatives influenced by private sector practice.

Upon leaving office in 1987, he again returned to business, this time continuing the economic development work he began as governor by founding his own international trade consulting firm, Victor Atiyeh & Company.