Explore every episode of the podcast The Private Equity Podcast, by Raw Selection
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
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| How the Best Private Equity Firms Hire Top Portfolio Executives With Jordan Burton | 27 Aug 2024 | 00:44:34 | |
Welcome to The Private Equity Podcast by Raw Selection! In this episode, our host, Alex Rawlings, is joined by Jordan Burton, co-founder of Talgo. Together, they delve into the intricacies of talent interviewing and assessment within the private equity sector. Jordan brings a wealth of knowledge from his transition from a potential private equity investor to an expert in executive talent assessment. This discussion promises to enlighten those interested in optimizing their hiring processes and understanding the common pitfalls and best practices in recruiting top-tier executives. [00:16] Discussion on timely decision-making in human capital issues. [00:44] Jordan shares his career transition to executive talent assessment. [01:12] Insights into Jordan’s career evolution and the founding of Talgo. [02:11] Importance of proper interviewing techniques in talent acquisition. [03:07] Indicators of when to act on personnel changes. [04:06] Consequences of being overly accommodating in personnel decisions. [05:02] Deep dive into interviewing and hiring processes. [06:01] Setting clear expectations and metrics for new executives. [08:22] Characteristics of effective private equity executives. [10:19] Traits that define a top executive in private equity. [12:15] Importance of quantitative skills in executives. [13:13] Techniques used in interviewing executives about their past experiences. [15:05] Importance of detailed discussions about past roles and achievements. [18:27] Systematic assessment in identifying leadership qualities. [20:26] Nuances of executive onboarding and performance tracking. [22:10] Organizational dynamics and internal politics in hiring. [24:06] Future trends in executive hiring, including technology impacts. [26:01] Importance of adaptability and continuous learning in talent acquisition. [28:26] Final thoughts on the evolution of the talent acquisition field. [30:52] Methodologies for developing leadership pipelines in portfolio companies. [33:18] Common pitfalls in the executive search process and avoidance strategies. [35:44] Role of diversity and inclusion in executive hiring. [38:09] Jordan reflects on the mentors who shaped his career. [40:33] Tips for building a career in talent management within private equity. [42:57] Advice for maintaining a competitive edge through strategic talent management. [44:31] Closing remarks by Alex, encouraging listener engagement and subscription. Thank you for tuning in! | |||
| A Private Equity Firm Founders Playbook On Value Creation With Brendan Anderson | 20 Aug 2024 | 00:33:06 | |
Welcome to the Private Equity Podcast! In this episode, we explore the nuances of building and scaling businesses within the private equity realm. Alex excited to welcome back Brendan Anderson, Managing Partner of ScaleCo Capital. [00:11] Discussion on enhancing value through strategic customer engagement and supplier relations. [00:21] Insight into the shift from gut feeling to data-driven decision-making in business strategies. [00:50] How ScaleCo Capital scales smaller businesses often overlooked by larger firms. [01:20] Focus on B2B service providers and manufacturers that require scalability. [02:18] Initial challenges in acquiring and transforming small-cap companies. [03:16] The significance of entrepreneurs stepping back from central operations to improve scalability and attractiveness. [05:35] Exploration of the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) for aligning management teams. [06:56] Importance of team alignment in realizing business visions through EOS. [08:16] Breakdown of ScaleCo's five pillars of business transformation. [11:02] Integration of technology in customer and supplier engagement. [12:53] Mention of ScaleCo's partnership with Grata, highlighting data-driven processes. [15:17] Challenges and strategies in building effective sales teams. [19:25] Impact of robust financial reporting on business strategy. [20:49] Essential financial metrics and practices for new acquisitions. [21:19] Brendan discusses the importance of accessing real-time financial data to drive strategic decisions. [22:41] How deep insights into financial data can reveal new growth avenues within existing customer bases. [24:06] Strategies for empowering leadership teams to take initiative and drive growth independently. [25:24] Plans for integrating operational changes within 18 to 36 months to ensure sustainable growth. [26:16] Challenges of effectively managing and growing businesses and how private equity provides crucial support. [27:13] The necessity of continuous self-development and adaptation for businesses to evolve. [28:11] The strategic focus on local investments to enhance relationship building and operational oversight. [29:04] Geographic focus and its impact on investment success rates and operational effectiveness. [30:01] The importance of local networks and relationships in managing and supporting businesses effectively. [31:27] Brendan offers contact information for those interested in connecting or learning more about ScaleCo Capital. [32:17] Discussion on building networks between talented individuals and promising businesses to foster growth and operational excellence in the private equity space. [32:46] Closing remarks by Alex, thanking Brendan for his insights and inviting listeners to subscribe for more private equity discussions Thank you for tuning in! | |||
| The Value Creation Plan From an Operator Turned Investor With Paul Swaney | 18 Jun 2024 | 00:30:02 | |
Welcome to The Private Equity Podcast! In this episode, host Alex Rawlings is joined by Paul Swaney, Managing Director of Swaney Group Capital. Formerly with Partners Group and a veteran of McKinsey and Amazon, Paul dives into the intricate world of value creation from an operator turned investor perspective. He shares his journey from the military to the forefront of private equity, discusses the innovative use of media for business growth, and details the strategic operational frameworks that have shaped his successful career. Join us as Paul provides a deep dive into his approach to enhancing portfolio company performance and his insights on the pivotal role of transformation governance in private equity.
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| Christen Paras on Excellence in Managing LP Relationships & Increasing Deal Origination | 06 Sep 2021 | 00:41:01 | |
*The information contained herein is provided for informational and discussion purposes only and is not an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy an interest.* Today we welcome Christen Paras who is MiddleGround Capital’s managing director of business development and investor relations. With a hands-on operational expertise, MiddleGround Capital invests in B2B companies in the industrials and specialty distribution sector that are in the lower middle markets. What You’ll Learn Why you should take business development seriously How marketing improves deal flow Brand awareness and value proposition through marketing Transparency in managing investor relations Diversity attracts founders, investors, and employees
Breakdown [00:42] Getting to know Christen Paras [02:05] Common mistake by PE firms and portfolio companies [04:56] MiddleGround Capital’s marketing & research strategy [12:52] Granting full access builds trust with LPs and business owners [21:14] MiddleGround Capital’s ESG efforts [23:48] Excellence in managing LP relationships [27:10] Notable attributes of top-performing individuals [30:09] Private equity: the good and the bad [36:20] Diversity in MiddleGround Capital’s senior leadership [38:34] Christen’s learning resources Christen’s Mobile Number: +732 207 1486
Thank you for tuning in! To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here. Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to alex.rawlings@raw-selection.com. | |||
| Bethany Gorham on Using ESG to Manage Risk and Create Value within Portfolio Companies | 23 Aug 2021 | 00:22:42 | |
Today’s Guest Today we welcome Bethany Gorham, Senior Vice President at Orion Energy Partners, where she has recently formed the IDEA group (Investment Development, Engagement, and Accountability). Orion is an investment firm that offers creative investment and equity solutions to middle-market infrastructure companies that are primarily focused on environmental innovation and driving sustainable finance forward. Before Orion, Bethany worked in impact investing and data and analytics in sustainable and socially responsible investing.
What You’ll Learn ESG as due diligence and a tool for identifying opportunities Why PE firms should adopt ESG as a tool Using ESG to manage risk and create value within portfolio companies
Breakdown [00:25] Getting to know Bethany Gorham [02:19] Common mistakes made by PE firms [03:09] ESG in the Private Equity workplace [08:53] Orion’s ESG strategy [13:22] Why PE firms should adopt ESG as a tool [15:59] Resources for learning about ESG [18:27] Bethany’s passion for ESG [21:05] Get in touch with Bethany
bethany@orionenergypartners.com
Thank you for tuning in! To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here. Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to alex.rawlings@raw-selection.com. | |||
| Leon Brujis on The Advantages of Diversity in a Private Equity Firm | 09 Aug 2021 | 00:21:14 | |
Today’s Guest
What You’ll Learn The effect of biases on investing decisions and deals Leon’s experience of bias during an investment How diversity in a private equity firm is an advantage
Breakdown [00:46] Getting to know Leon Brujis [01:57] Common mistake by PE firms and portfolio companies [05:29] Leon’s experience as a minority in the finance industry [08:24] Diversity in a company is an advantage [10:05] Leon’s bias led to a bad investment decision [13:36] How to guard against bias [15:52] Private equity: the good and the bad [19:01] Leon’s learning resources
Thank you for tuning in! To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here. Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to alex.rawlings@raw-selection.com. | |||
| Jon Ostenson on the Challenges of Investing at the Franchise Level | 26 Jul 2021 | 00:22:11 | |
Today’s Guest What You’ll Learn Investing opportunities in the franchise industry Rise of non-food and non-retail franchises Franchisee VS franchisor level of investment Challenges in franchise investing Breakdown [00:39] Getting to know Jon Ostenson [01:47] Why Jon got into private equity [02:48] Common mistake by PE firms and portfolio companies [05:03] Reasons to invest in the franchise industry [08:46] Industry and market trends in franchising [10:10] Challenges of investing at the franchise level [11:35] Convincing LPs to invest in franchise businesses [12:53] Advice to PE firms about niche specialization [14:35] Notable attributes of top-performing individuals [16:37] Jon’s learning resources [19:38] Employee retention and succession planning [20:47] Jon’s advice to his 20-year-old self Thank you for tuning in! To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here. Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to alex.rawlings@raw-selection.com. | |||
| James Lee on Maintaining a Smoother Deal Process through Transparent Communication and Standardizing M&A Purchase Agreements | 12 Jul 2021 | 01:01:45 | |
Today’s Guest Today we welcome James Lee who is a partner at Proskauer Rose’s private equity/M&A group. He advises private equity firms, venture capital funds, and portfolio companies on a variety of transactions such as mergers and acquisitions, leveraged buyouts, and PE and VC investments to name a few. From 2015 to 2018, James has been nominated and has received several M&A Advisor Awards for his exceptional legal counsel.
What You’ll Learn Smoother deal process through transparent communication ESG metrics, certification, and credit ratings Standardizing M&A purchase agreements for better deal flow
Breakdown [01:03] Getting to know James Lee [04:10] Common mistake by PE firms and portfolio companies [12:01] The need for standardized ESG metrics [16:55] Certification of ESG practices [20:09] ESG Scores in the credit market [26:20] The need for standardized purchase agreements [35:51] Law firms as true partners to clients [41:51] Full markups in the auction process [43:54] Advising founders during mergers & acquisitions [47:36] Notable attributes of top-performing individuals [52:25] Private equity: the good and the bad [59:45] James’ learning resources James’ Mobile Number: +1 212 969 3036 Thank you for tuning in!
To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here. Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to alex.rawlings@raw-selection.com. | |||
| Nancy Barnes on Common HR Mistakes Made by Private Equity Firms and Portfolio Companies | 28 Jun 2021 | 00:31:36 | |
Today’s Guest Today we welcome Nancy Barnes, a freelance human resources professional who works with several businesses inside a private equity portfolio. In her 18 years of talent management, she has helped transform international companies by making strategic HR changes to drive business growth.
What You’ll Learn The importance of transparent communication How to avoid panic hiring Strategic approach to human resource management Creating a social engagement team What characteristics to look for in senior hires
Breakdown [00:37] Getting to know Nancy Barnes [01:47] Common HR mistake by PE firms and portfolio companies [04:57] Adapting to a fast-paced environment [07:50] Alignment of HR strategy with business goals [11:40] Improving the integration process of an add-on acquisition [15:32] How to build engagement with teams [18:31] Recruitment and succession planning [22:17] A good hire should be comfortable with change [26:53] Private equity: the good and the bad [30:50] Nancy’s learning resources Thank you for tuning in! To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here. Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to alex.rawlings@raw-selection.com.
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| Anthony DeCandido on the Importance of ESG in Private Equity and Essential ESG Metrics to Report | 14 Jun 2021 | 00:28:16 | |
Today’s Guest What You’ll Learn Importance of ESG in private equity How to implement ESG strategies in the company Essential ESG metrics to report Trends in the private equity industry
Breakdown [00:40] Getting to know Anthony DeCandido [02:30] ESG in private equity [04:01] Common mistake by PE firms and portfolio companies [05:55] How to start integration of ESG strategy [07:48] Key performance indicators to track ESG [12:07] Private equity: the good and the bad [14:55] Notable attributes of top-performing individuals [16:20] Anthony’s learning resources [17:22] Major trends in private equity [24:03] Popularity of special purpose acquisition companies (SPAC) [25:20] Using alternative data for better insight Thank you for tuning in! To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here. Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to alex.rawlings@raw-selection.com. | |||
| Dan Shockley on How to Build Trust Between Private Equity Firms and Portfolio Companies | 31 May 2021 | 00:38:23 | |
Today’s Guest Today we welcome Dan Shockley, Managing Director and Co-Founder of LFM Capital. Dan has over two decades of experience in management leadership and operations. He has held managerial positions at American Axle, Caterpillar, and Amazon before entering private equity. LFM Capital is a PE firm that invests in lower to middle market manufacturing companies and industrial service businesses. They help businesses develop world-class operations which increases long term value for all stakeholders.
What You’ll Learn How to build trust between PE firms and portfolio companies Balancing the use of objective and subjective data Creating a better strategy with the use of analytics and data Trends in the manufacturing industry
Breakdown [01:10] Getting to know Dan Shockley [05:30] Dan’s career transition into private equity [09:17] Common engagement mistake by PE firms [14:59] Negotiating a win-win deal in private equity [19:39] Dangers of being too data driven [23:06] How to engage with portfolio companies [25:40] Improving performance through insight [27:28] Trends in the industrial and manufacturing space [32:23] Notable attributes of top-performing individuals [36:02] Dan’s learning resources Thank you for tuning in!
To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here. Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to alex.rawlings@raw-selection.com.
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| Kjael Skaalerud on The Digital Collision Coming for Private Equity and Venture Capital Firms | 17 May 2021 | 00:48:16 | |
Today's Guest Today we welcome Kjael Skaalerud, the Chief Revenue Officer in Altvia, a market-leading provider for CRM and investor & deal management systems built explicitly for Private Equity Firms. He is also the founder of Skaling Ventures and believes businesses blend art and science to create and capture value.
What You'll Learn How data is taking over the Private Equity and Venture Capitals space Two well-known ways companies grow their revenue Why Private Equity Firms are not at the forefront of tech adoption How industry revolution is positively impacting value creation and shifting market dominance
Breakdown [00:40] Getting to know Kjael Skaalerud [03:32] Mistakes made by PE Firms and their portfolio companies [06:50] The digital collision coming for PE and VC firms [19:32] Technology adoption in the PE space [22:10] Understanding proprietary deal flow [34:02] How to accelerate growth in the venture capital/private equity space [37:19] Attributes of a top-performing individual [44:01] Kjael's go-to information resource
Thank you for tuning in! To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here. Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to alex.rawlings@raw-selection.com. | |||
| Reynir Indahl on Sustainability, ESG Investing and Solving Global Challenges in the Private Equity Industry | 03 May 2021 | 00:39:37 | |
Today’s Guest
What You’ll Learn How the Private Equity Space has evolved over time The benefits of niching down your business Why sustainability is the new driver for value creation Role of purpose in business success Why millennials prefer working for companies with meaning and purpose
Breakdown [00:57] Getting to know Reynir Indahl [04:33] Solving global challenges [07:50] How Reynir and his company guarantee investment returns [15:55] Challenges faced when setting up Private Equity Firms [21:27] Reynir’s transition from the corporate world into entrepreneurship [24:30] How to better engage with a portfolio executive [33:29] Notable attributes of top performing PE firms [35:50] Reynir’s go-to information source The Private Equity 4.0 article Reimagining Capitalism by Rebecca Henderson Reinventing Organizations by Frederic Laloux The Corporate Unplugged Podcast
Thank you for tuning in! To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here. Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to alex.rawlings@raw-selection.com. | |||
| Proven Strategies for Achieving 7 Exits and Maximizing Business Value with Chris Jamroz | 11 Jun 2024 | 00:40:18 | |
Welcome to The Private Equity Podcast! In this episode, host Alex Rawlings talks with Chris Jamroz, CEO of Roadrunner and a former executive at Ascent Global Logistics. Chris shares his extensive experience in logistics and Private Equity, discussing the transition from investment banking to executive leadership. He highlights the common errors in Private Equity, such as focusing too heavily on past performance instead of potential growth, and offers advice on effective leadership and strategic investment. Chris also provides insights into navigating the cyclical nature of the logistics industry and emphasizes the importance of operational expertise in achieving successful exits. This episode offers valuable perspectives on leadership and investment strategies in Private Equity. | |||
| Oliver Gottschalg on How Private Equity Firms Can Identify Their USP To Target LP's | 19 Apr 2021 | 00:42:18 | |
Today’s Guest Today we welcome Oliver Gottschalg founder and head researcher of PERACS, the leading private equity analytics provider. Oliver also serves as an associate professor at HEC Paris and as academic dean of the TRIUM Global Executive MBA. Combining all of his research and work experience in private equity, Oliver has been in the field for 20 years now.
What You’ll Learn How PERACS deals with both GPs and LPs Challenges in acquiring private equity data How PE firms can identify their USP Success metrics to look out for in PE firms Company acquisition from a founder’s point of view
Breakdown [00:49] Getting to know Oliver Gottschalg [02:09] PERACS as a PE specialist advisory firm [03:02] Gathering and analyzing private equity data [05:17] Key indicators of success for GPs [10:46] How LPs can identify good PE firms [13:54] How PE firms can present themselves better to LPs [18:45] Common mistake of PE firms in marketing and positioning [20:27] How PE firms can identify their unique selling proposition [23:06] Why Oliver founded PERACS [28:46] The acquisition of PERACS [34:41] Notable attributes of top-performing PE firms [35:59] Data availability in private equity [39:16] Oliver’s learning resources Thank you for tuning in! To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here. Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to alex.rawlings@raw-selection.com. | |||
| Adam Coffey on the Best Practices for Acquisition and Integration | 05 Apr 2021 | 01:09:55 | |
Private Equity Podcast Today’s Guest Today we welcome Adam Coffey, bestselling author of The Private Equity Playbook. For over two decades, he worked as president and CEO of several private equity-backed service companies. Currently, he is the CEO of CoolSys, a market-leading refrigeration and HVAC service company in America.
What You’ll Learn Recruiting the right people to drive growth Best practices for acquisition and integration Adam’s exit strategy
Breakdown [00:00:47] Getting to know Adam Coffey [00:05:24] Common mistake by private equity firms [00:08:36] Recruiting the right talent for specific roles [00:17:15] Acquisition and integration strategy [00:23:22] Challenges in managing portfolio of companies [00:28:12] Advice for exiting private equity investments [00:36:11] Why Adam got into writing [00:45:46] Notable attributes of top-performing individuals [00:50:47] Private equity: the good and the bad [00:56:00] Adam’s learning resources [01:00:37] Navigating through COVID-19 Thank you for tuning in!
To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here. Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to alex.rawlings@raw-selection.com. | |||
| Bruce Sinclair on Digital Transformation and its Impact | 23 Mar 2021 | 00:55:45 | |
Today’s Guest Today we welcome Bruce Sinclair, founder and principal consultant of Digital Operating Partners. Drawing from his experiences as a CEO and as a consultant, he authored two books on how businesses can leverage technology to create more value.
What You’ll Learn Definition of digital transformation and how it creates value How to get started on digital transformation The role of digital transformation in private equity Example applications of high-level technology to create smart products and services Onboarding the right expert or team to create structural change
Breakdown [00:49] Getting to know Bruce Sinclair [02:40] Why Bruce got into writing [05:46] Digital transformation and its impact [13:58] Biggest mistake by private equity firms in digital transformation [17:40] Founding a company during COVID-19 [21:54] The Role of Digital Operating Partners [25:54] How digital transformation creates value [32:50] Examples of digital transformation [38:36] How to begin digital transformation in portfolio of companies [45:19] Notable attributes of top-performing individual [47:08] Qualities to look for in a digital transformation expert or team [52:02] Bruce’s learning resources The Private Equity Digital Operating Partner Digital Operating Partners Website The Private Equity Digital Transformation Show Thank you for tuning in!
To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here. Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to alex.rawlings@raw-selection.com | |||
| Laith Murad on Strategies That Work for Chief Marketing Officers | 09 Mar 2021 | 00:49:28 | |
Private Equity Podcast
Today's Guest Today we welcome Laith Murad, an experienced Chief Marketing Officer, having worked for small equity-backed companies right up to being a vice president with Yahoo.
What You'll Learn The relationship between marketing and business success How to beat your competition using SEO Why emotions and human behavior are essential to every marketing campaign Why data doesn't always work in marketing How to determine your target audience How influencers have evolved from the '90s up to now
Breakdown [00:54] Getting to know Laith Murad [04:02] The Biggest marketing mistakes most companies make [06:01] Defining marketing from a CEO's perspective [10:50] How companies with limited resources can stand out from the crowd [17:10] Parts of a business that influence effective marketing strategies [21:58] Data that guarantees effective marketing campaigns [28:01] Notable attributes of top-performing individual [33:35] What Lath likes and dislikes about private equity [39:19] Marketing for beginners
Resources
Thank you for tuning in!
To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here. Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to alex.rawlings@raw-selection.com | |||
| Greg Gille on How Private Equity Firms Fuel Top Tier Value Creation | 23 Feb 2021 | 01:03:15 | |
Today's Guest Today we welcome Greg Gille, the chief editor of Unquote, a European public equity publication that focuses on financial markets across Europe from a data viewpoint. Gille is also the chair of the judging panel for the British Private Equity Awards. What You'll Learn How private equity firms create value Why consistency is key in value creation What makes a successful private equity firm Why most finance people detest private equity How cumulative mistakes have the potential of sinking a business How private equity firms attract top talents The link between diversity and thriving workplaces Breakdown [00:40] Who is Greg Gille [03:47] The main thing judges look out for during the British Private Equity Awards [09:06] What is value creation [13:48] Cumulative areas where private equity firms are struggling with [20:40] Why sticking to a working strategy can be a good thing [25:03] The relationship between private equity firms and the media [33:41] How private equity firms stand out in the financial sector [40:39] Things that Greg likes and dislikes about the industry [53:20] Greg's influences and what he's reading now [58:40] Greg's advice to his 20-year-old self Resources Thank you for tuning in! To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here. Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to alex.rawlings@raw-selection.com | |||
| Carol Crick on Why Trusting Your Private Equity Firm is Key to Success as a Portfolio Company | 09 Feb 2021 | 00:29:36 | |
Today's Guest Today we welcome Carol Crick, Vice President of HR at Acorn Growth Companies, a middle market Private Equity firm focused on aerospace, defence and intelligence. Acorn invests in operating companies that strive to enhance global mobility, protect national interests, and develop next-generation intelligence gathering technology. Prior to joining Acorn, she spent years mentoring and leading teams to build corporate HR departments, and assisted multiple companies to grow both organically and strategically. As director of Human Resources for Select Energy Services, Carol was instrumental in leading a strategic expansion of growth from 1000 employees to more than 6,200 over a 4-year period. Carol graduated from Central Texas College with a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. She served many years on the Lake Dallas ISD School Board of Trustees, currently sits on the Aerospace Employer Advisory Board for COWIB and is very active at Woodland Hills Baptist Church.
In today’s episode Carol talks about her responsibilities as VP of HR and her experience partnering with business owners What you'll learn · Why trusting your Private Equity firm is key to success as a Portfolio Company · The similarities between a HR role and an Operating Partner role · Why talent is vital when making add-on acquisitions Breakdown 01:45 - Managing the difference between working for an Operating business to working for a Private Equity firm 02:44 - What are the biggest mistakes PE firms and Portfolio companies are making right now 06:47 - What does HR do outside of the usual hiring/firing 09:22 - What are the key challenges facing portfolio companies right now? 11:47 - Biggest challenges when purchasing and integrating new portfolio companies 15:29 - What do you like and dislike about the Private Equity Industry 19:15 - 3 qualities of a top performer 21:50 - What are your influences 23:27 - Have you even been blindsided and what did you learn from it? 24:30 - What advice would you give to your 20 year old self? Resources https://www.linkedin.com/in/carol-crick-ab9b634/ https://acorngrowthcompanies.com/ Thank you for tuning in! To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here. Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to alex.rawlings@raw-selection.com | |||
| Greg Bloom on Growing a Successful Aerospace & Defence Company and his Predictions for the Future of the Industry | 26 Jan 2021 | 00:45:00 | |
Today's Guest Today we welcome Greg Bloom, an experienced private equity backed operating partner and CEO experienced in the aerospace, defence and intelligence sector. Greg is possibly one of the most connected people I know in the A&D world and has a stellar track record of growing companies. Starting his career in Investment Banking, Greg spent his early career working for Prudential Securities in both Los Angeles and New York. Greg then spent the next 10 years working for various different companies before joining Seal Science in 2002. Being hugely impacted by the 9/11 terror attacks, Greg was instrumental is driving the company to become a military and aerospace support organisation and developed Seal Science into one of the top companies in Signature Management (stealth technologies). Greg made the move the Private Equity in 2019 and now works closely with Acorn’s Aerospace and Defence portfolio companies. What’s in this episode? In today’s episode Greg talks all about his experience working in the Aerospace and Defence industry and gives his predictions for the future. What you'll learn · Why now is the best time to look at your portfolio of talent · Why fleets and A&D companies need to diversify towards environmentally friendly aircraft · Why you need to make decisions quickly in your company · Why you should be willing to serve Breakdown 3:47 - What are the differences working for non PE backed companies to working in a PE company now 5:46 - What are the biggest mistakes PE firms and Portfolio companies are making right now 9:15 - Greg talks about his time leading Seal science and 7x the revenue 11:55 - What should Aerospace and Defence companies be doing in the current climate 15:12 - What is the biggest area for growth in the A&D area right now? 20:10 - What three attributes makes a top performer 28:25 - What do you like and dislike about the Private Equity Industry 33:08 - What are your influences 36:00 - Have you even been blindsided and what did you learn from it? 39:50 - What advice would you give to your 20 year old self? Resources https://www.linkedin.com/in/gbloom/ https://acorngrowthcompanies.com/
Thank you for tuning in! To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here. Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to alex.rawlings@raw-selection.com | |||
| Marc Prine on How Industrial-Organisational Psychology Can Help You Unlock the Best Talent for Your Business | 12 Jan 2021 | 00:46:02 | |
Today's Guest Today we welcome Marc Prine, an industrial-organisational psychologist working with Private Equity clients in the US to improve their performance by using data to better manage their people. What’s in this episode? In today’s episode Marc explains how he helps his clients secure the talent that is right for them, using a mixture of executive assessment and selection, succession planning, job analysis and business process improvement. What you'll learn What exactly is an industrial/organisational psychologist Why experience in an industry doesn’t always translate to success in the job Why you need to think about where you want to go before hiring talent What is the 'locus of control' Why instant gratification could kill your career Why optimism is a key factor in great leadership Breakdown 6:46 - What one mistake do you see PE firms or Portfolio Companies making 10:20 - The two main duties of an organisational psychologist 14:45 - What PE firms can learn from working with an organisational psychologist 18:40 - The difference between a controller and a CFO 20:44 - How do you measure if someone can create strategic value? 23:07 - The three attributes of a top performer 32:14 - What do you like and dislike about Private Equity 35:20 - Marc’s influences and what he’s reading right now 38:20 - A time Marc was blindsided and what he learned from it 41:25 - What advice would you give your 20 year old self Resources https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcprine/ https://www.mipconsultingllc.com/ Thank you for tuning in! To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here. Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to alex.rawlings@raw-selection.com | |||
| Paul McCluskey on Exits and Building a Successful CRO Business | 29 Dec 2020 | 01:00:40 | |
Today's Guest Today we welcome Paul McCluskey, an experienced Private Equity board director with a record of creating significant shareholder value and delivering strategic growth. Originally qualifying with KPMG as a Chartered Accountant, Paul then moved into the FTSE 100 environment. After selling one of the FTSE 100 businesses to an American business, Paul started on the Private Equity journey in 2007 when he was part of the MBO team that took Synexa life sciences private with Private Equity, successfully exiting at 3x investment value in 2011. Later, in 2014, Paul was part of the MBI team that created Concept Life Sciences with support from Equistone Partners. He now works as a Consultant, advising business in the Life Sciences and Technology industries. What’s in this episode? In today’s episode Paul discusses with Alex how he created Concept Life Sciences with a series of management buy-ins and the challenges he faced growing this business before ultimately exiting in 2018 for 3x ROI. What you'll learn
Breakdown 4:44 - What one mistake do you see PE firms or Portfolio Companies making 8:07 - Advice for CEO’s looking to enter the Private Equity world 14:26 - Paul discusses what it was like growing a business with a Private Equity sponsor and exiting 24:30 - The challenges Paul faced integrating multiple add-on business and making sure there were no culture clashes 27:31 - Paul shares his biggest successes with Concept Life Sciences 30:06 - How can PE firms get more value from their Portfolio Companies 32:44 - Advice for CEO’s wanting to take their business PE backed 35:45 - What three attributes make a top performer 38:59 - What Paul loves and hates about the PE industry 44:11 - Paul’s influences 49:12 - Paul talks about a time he was blindsided and what he learned from it 55:55 - What advice would you give your 20 year old self Resources https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-mccluskey-3488b09a/ https://www.conceptlifesciences.com/ https://www.synexusclinic.co.uk/ Thank you for tuning in! To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here. Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to alex.rawlings@raw-selection.com | |||
| Rick Brawn on Transitioning from Running Companies as CEO to Becoming an Operating Partner | 19 Nov 2020 | 00:47:25 | |
Today's Guest Today we welcome Rick Brawn, Operating Partner at GenNx360, an operationally focused Private Equity firm that invests in industrial and business service companies. After receiving his engineering degree from MIT, Rick joined Pratt and Whitney, an engine company part of United Technologies. He was with the company for 17 years, achieving his masters and MBA in engineering, holding various different positions and even moving to 6 different countries with his wife and 4 children to go where the company needed him. 5 years ago he made the transition to working for GenNx360 as Operating Partner and now lives in Florida. What’s in this episode? In today’s episode Rick explains how he transitioned from running companies as the former Managing Director of Rolls Royce and Pratt & Whitney, to working for a Private Equity firm as an Operating Partner and the steep learning curve that came with that transition. What you'll learn
2:36 - What one mistake do you see PE firms or Portfolio Companies making 4:03 - Advice for a CEO of a business being acquired by a PE firm 6:04 - How do you define the role of Operating Partner 8:04 - How involved in the deal process are Operating Partners? 10:29 - How Rick transitioned from running companies as MD/CEO to working for the PE firm as Operating Partner 18:39 - Main challenges faced as an Operating Partner 20:12 - What advice would you give someone looking to make the move to Operating Partner 27:00 - The three attributes that make a top performing executive 32:08 - Rick’s likes and dislikes in the Private Equity industry 39:30 - Rick’s experience with being blindsided 42:17 - What advice would Rick give to his 20-year-old self? Resources https://www.linkedin.com/in/operatingpartner/ https://gennx360.com/team-info/rick-brawn https://www.rolls-roycemotorcars.com/en_GB/home.html Thank you for tuning in! To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here. Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to alex.rawlings@raw-selection.com | |||
| How To Due Diligence Your Most Important Asset in Private Equity With Dan Cremons | 04 Jun 2024 | 00:42:27 | |
Welcome to The Private Equity Podcast! In this episode, host Alex Rawlings chats with Dan Cremons, Founder of Accelera Partners, and discusses the integration of human capital into Private Equity value creation, emphasizing proactive talent management. He shares insights on optimizing teams, strategic hiring, and the significance of due diligence on leadership before acquisition. Cremons stresses learning from hiring mistakes, recognizing biases, and evolving human capital practices. He advocates for nuanced talent assessment, including development and coaching. Resources influencing his approach to value creation and human capital in private equity are also shared. You can connect with Dan Cremons on LinkedIn by visiting his LinkedIn Page - Link to Dan Cremons' LinkedIn Thank you for tuning in! | |||
| Victor Vescovo on Mountaineering, Deep Sea Explorations and Co-Founding a Private Equity Firm | 19 Nov 2020 | 00:36:55 | |
Today's Guest We’re extremely excited to welcome Victor Vescovo to the podcast today. Victor is an American private equity investor, co-founder of Insight Equity, retired naval officer, and undersea explorer, being the first person to reach the deepest points of four of the Earth’s five oceans during the Five Deeps Expedition of 2018-2019. In 2017, Vescovo became the 12th American to complete the “Explorers Grand Slam” which requires climbing the highest peak on all seven of the world’s continents, including Mt. Everest. For more than 20 years, Vescovo served as an office in the U.S. Navy Reserve, retiring in 2014. He served at various times on extended active duty, including Pearl Harbor where he was posted after the 9/11 attacks as a counter-terrorism specialist. In the Private Equity world, he is cofounder and Managing Partner of Private Equity firm Insight Equity, an industrial buyout firm with over $1B AUM, where he focuses on growing and enhancing aerospace and defence firms. What’s in this episode? In today’s episode Victor chats with Alex about his experiences in mountaineering and undersea exploration and draws on the strong parallels between working in Private Equity and doing expeditions and military operations.
Breakdown 4:40 - Why do some people take on more risk than others, in expeditions and in business? 8:45 - The biggest mistakes Victor sees people making in PE 10:16 - How Victor’s military background influences his decision making today 13:00 - Why Victor set up his PE Firm, Insight Equity 16:04 - Victor describes what was working in the military was like 17:30 - How to make partner in your firm 19:57 - Victor’s interpretation of what makes a great leader 22:34 - The makeup of a top performer 25:10 - Victor’s likes and dislikes in the Private Equity Industry 33:40 - what advice would you give to your 20 year old self Resources https://www.ted.com/speakers/victor_vescovo To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here. Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out to Alex with any questions, send an email to alex.rawlings@raw-selection.com | |||
| The Private Equity Podcast teaser | 18 Nov 2020 | 00:02:29 | |
Introducing The Private Equity Podcast, hosted by Alex Rawlings. | |||
| How Private Equity Firms Can Engage Owners & Founders to Secure the Deal with Chris Parisi | 28 May 2024 | 00:29:48 | |
Welcome to The Private Equity Podcast! In this episode, host Alex Rawlings engages with Chris Parisi, a partner at Carl Marks Advisors, to discuss how Private Equity firms can more effectively engage with business owners and founders to secure successful deals. Parisi shares insights from his extensive experience in middle-market investment banking, focusing on the nuances of working with family-owned and privately held businesses. | |||
| What The Best Private Equity Firms Are Doing To Attract Capital With Rocío Heres | 21 May 2024 | 00:29:05 | |
Welcome to The Private Equity Podcast! In this episode, host Alex Rawlings speaks with Rocío Heres, Partner at AltamarCam Partners and discusses the competitive nature of capital raising in Private Equity, stressing the value of talent development and succession planning for long-term success. She highlights the shift towards specialization in the industry and the importance of aligning with LP expectations in fundraising efforts. Rocío shares insights from her international career and addresses the balance between professional success and personal life, advocating for increased female representation in Private Equity. Contact details for further conversations with Rocío are also provided. Thank you for tuning in! | |||
| Creating the Gold Standard in Hiring and People Development For Your Private Equity Firm with Sam Adams | 14 May 2024 | 00:46:01 | |
Welcome to The Private Equity Podcast! In this episode, we are joined by Sam Adams, Managing Director of Talent at Berkshire Partners. Sam shares invaluable insights into the importance of talent development and hiring beyond the conventional Private Equity norms. Discover Berkshire Partners' innovative approaches to nurturing talent, their unique selection processes, and the impact these strategies have on their overall success. Sam also discusses the cultural elements that support growth within a Private Equity firm and the unconventional paths to hiring that have proven effective. Stay tuned as we dive deep into how Berkshire Partners sets the gold standard in people development.
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| The Tools To Increase Your Exit Multiples - The Playbook Series With Carl Cox | 07 May 2024 | 00:32:42 | |
Welcome to The Private Equity Podcast! This is the first episode in The Playbook Series. In this episode, host Alex Rawlings speaks with Carl Cox, the CEO of 40 Strategy. Carl shares insights on increasing exit multiples for private equity investments. Highlighting the gap in data-driven strategy, Cox introduces a software tool for strategic planning that focuses on business improvements to positively impact exit multiples. He emphasizes the importance of reducing business risks and enhancing sales processes as key strategies. The discussion also explores the role of leading indicators in driving growth. Thank you for tuning in! | |||
| The Opportunity in Micro Cap Investing And The Importance of Playbooks With Javar Avery | 30 Apr 2024 | 00:30:05 | |
Welcome to The Private Equity Podcast! In this episode, host Alex Rawlings talks with Javar Avery, President at Sun and Moon Capital. They delve into micro-cap investing's potential and the essential role of operational playbooks. Avery discusses the rationale behind focusing on smaller, often overlooked companies, detailing the importance of detailed due diligence and strategic deal-making. He highlights overcoming key risks, like key man risk, and maintaining owner engagement for success. The episode also touches on Avery's influences and reading recommendations, offering insights into effective strategies for micro-cap investment growth. Thank you for tuning in! | |||
| Refining Your Investment Focus for Enhanced Deal Flow and Climate Crisis Mitigation with James Mackey | 23 Apr 2024 | 00:29:21 | |
Welcome to The Private Equity Podcast! In this episode, host Alex Rawlings talks with James Mackey, the Managing Director of Climate Investment. They discuss the advantages of a focused investment strategy for boosting deal flow and addressing the climate crisis. James highlights the importance of precise investment criteria in attracting impactful projects, especially in hard-to-abate sectors like heavy industry and transportation. He stresses the need for realistic assessments and data-driven decisions to scale investments effectively. The conversation offers key insights for investors aiming to contribute significantly to environmental sustainability through disciplined investment approaches. You can connect with James Mackey on LinkedIn by visiting his LinkedIn Page. | |||
| Investing In Real Assets And The Electric Transportation Revolution With Reuben Munger | 16 Apr 2024 | 00:29:17 | |
Welcome to The Private Equity Podcast! In this episode, host Alex Rawlings chats with Reuben Munger of Vision Ridge Partners about the intersection of Private Equity and sustainable investments, focusing on the electric transportation revolution. Munger, a pioneer in sustainable real assets, shares insights into transitioning from hedge funds to Private Equity with a sustainability lens, and the impact of electric vehicles and infrastructure on the environment and investment returns. Dive into this engaging discussion on how Vision Ridge Partners is leading the charge in sustainable investments, shaping a greener future through strategic, impactful projects. Thank you for tuning in! | |||
| Founding and Managing a Private Equity Firm, Highs and Lows with Brad Nathan - Playbook Series | 13 Aug 2024 | 00:45:59 | |
Welcome to the Private Equity Podcast! In this episode, Alex Rawlings welcomes back Brad Nathan, a seasoned private equity firm founder, to dive into the intricacies of starting and managing a PE firm. Brad shares first-hand experiences, detailing the triumphs and tribulations he's encountered and offering a comprehensive guide for navigating the competitive private equity landscape. Episode Timestamps: [01:15] Exploration of Brad’s early career and the motivations behind starting his private equity firm. [06:45] Strategies Brad implemented to overcome initial failures and secure the firm’s first successful deals. [10:20] Key decisions and strategies that fueled the firm’s growth and expansion. [13:50] Insights into the recruitment, culture building, and leadership styles vital for a successful PE firm. [18:30] Stories of the highest highs and lowest lows in managing the firm. [22:10] The most valuable lessons learned throughout Brad’s career and advice to aspiring private equity firm founders. [25:40] Predictions on emerging trends and the evolution of the private equity industry. [29:00] Listener Q&A session with Brad on specific challenges and advice on various scenarios in private equity. [33:15] Summary of key insights shared by Brad and closing remarks. Thank you for tuning in! | |||
| What Europe and the US can learn from each other on ESG with Gwen Colin | 09 Apr 2024 | 00:31:03 | |
Welcome to The Private Equity Podcast! In this episode, we delve into the world of ESG in infrastructure investment with Gwen Colin, ESG Director at Vauban Infrastructure Partners. Gwen shares insights on the differences between ESG practices in the US and Europe, the challenges of implementing ESG strategies, and the impact of long-term investment on sustainable growth. Discover actionable ESG strategies, learn from Gwen's journey, and explore how to integrate sustainability into your investment approach. Join us for a deep dive into making ESG a pivotal part of your business strategy. Breakdown: [00:00] Introduction to Gwen Colin and the focus on ESG within infrastructure across the US and Europe. [01:04] Gwen shares her background, emphasizing her shift from legal advisor to leading ESG initiatives. [02:04] Discussion on common ESG implementation mistakes and the importance of a long-term perspective in asset management. [04:24] Insights into the governance differences between the US and Europe in ESG practices. [08:39] The rationale behind Vauban's long-term investment strategy and its impact on ESG. [14:24] Successful ESG strategies in portfolio companies, focusing on decarbonization and community impact. [19:58] Gwen's personal influences, recommending "What We Owe Each Other" by Minouche Shafik for broader learning. [22:21] Closing thoughts on the importance of ESG in infrastructure and a thank you to listeners for their continued support. | |||
| How to drive portfolio EBITDA via ESG with General Atlantic's Global Head, Cornelia Gomez | 02 Apr 2024 | 00:47:50 | |
Welcome to The Private Equity Podcast! In this episode we dive into the world of ESG with Cornelia Gomez, Global Head of ESG and Sustainability at General Atlantic. Cornelia brings a wealth of experience, sharing how to seamlessly integrate ESG into Private Equity, enhance business growth, and navigate sustainability challenges. Discover actionable ESG strategies that drive value and prepare companies for a sustainable future. [00:00] Introduction to Cornelia Gomez's background and role at General Atlantic. [00:33] The conversation focuses on the unique challenges of implementing ESG strategies in growth equity firms compared to later-stage companies, emphasizing the importance of tailored approaches for hyper-growth companies. [01:30] Cornelia shares her personal and professional background, underscoring her dedication to leveraging business as a force for addressing global challenges such as modern slavery, rising inequalities, and climate change. [02:25] Insights into Cornelia's career journey, from working on supply chain sustainability in Asia to leading ESG initiatives in the Private Equity sector. [03:55] Discussion on common mistakes made by Private Equity firms and portfolio companies in ESG, particularly the neglect of governance aspects, and strategies to enhance governance practices. [05:22] Cornelia addresses the need for comprehensive governance in ESG initiatives, including board governance quality and oversight on sustainability risks and opportunities. [06:42] Highlighting the gap between executive teams and boards in terms of ESG awareness and training, suggesting a need for more direct communication and education on ESG issues at the board level. [09:52] The conversation shifts to strategies for effectively communicating ESG principles within companies, emphasizing the importance of aligning ESG discussions with executive interests and operational realities. [11:33] Cornelia discusses her learning curve at General Atlantic, the importance of scalable ESG initiatives, and the focus on data-driven approaches to engage portfolio companies in meaningful ESG actions. [18:45] Insights into how General Atlantic integrates ESG considerations throughout the investment lifecycle, from due diligence to exit strategies. [21:22] The strategy of using ESG playbooks and targeted engagement based on company clusters to address specific ESG challenges and opportunities within the portfolio. [24:08] Cornelia shares examples of successful ESG engagements and the importance of coordinated efforts among PE firms, portfolio companies, and co-investors to achieve sustainability goals. [30:45] Discussion on the concept of "gold standard" in ESG implementation, highlighting the need for actionable plans, robust governance, and continuous monitoring of ESG initiatives. [38:02] Cornelia offers personal recommendations for podcasts, music, and activities that inspire her, along with the value she finds in mentoring and interacting with the next generation of leaders. [41:54] The episode concludes with advice on reaching out to Cornelia for further discussion on ESG and other topics. | |||
| Lessons From a Founder That All Private Equity and Portfolio Executives Need to Hear With Allan Draper | 26 Mar 2024 | 00:40:37 | |
Welcome to The Private Equity Podcast! This episode provides valuable insights into the mindset and strategies of a successful entrepreneur who has founded and managed multiple businesses. Allan Draper's experiences offer lessons on leadership, the importance of delegation, and the value of aligning with passionate individuals, all crucial for Private Equity investors and portfolio executives aiming for growth and success. [00:00] Introduction to Allan Draper's business portfolio, highlighting his principle of delegation and efficiency. [00:28] Alex Rawlings explains the value Allan brings to the podcast, focusing on insights for PE investors and C-suite executives from a founder outside the PE space. [01:52] Allan provides an overview of his entrepreneurial journey, emphasizing his role in assisting others to build their businesses and wealth. [02:50 Discussion on the challenges and motivations behind starting and running multiple businesses, particularly the love for the startup phase. [03:50] Allan shares his strategy for business growth, focusing on finding passionate people to run the businesses, enabling him to continue creating new ventures. [05:19] The importance of hiring the right people and the difficulty in letting go of control. [06:17] Allan advocates for the principle that 80% done by someone else is better than 100% done by oneself. [08:12] Challenges in hiring executives and Allan's approach to identifying leaders who share his vision and passion. [10:30] Advice for executives on leadership, highlighting transparency, vulnerability, and the importance of taking care of employees. [11:27] Allan's insights on igniting passion and drive within an organization, emphasizing accountability, autonomy, and recognition. [14:18] Allan recounts the journey of scaling Proof Pest Control, from its challenges to achieving significant growth. [17:12] Discussion on the role of acquisitions in scaling the business and the strategic choice between organic growth and acquisitions. [18:39] Building a strong brand and the importance of consistency and faith in business success. [20:34] Allan addresses the biggest challenges faced, including business partnerships and hiring the right personnel. [22:59] Allan's perspective on motivations at work. [27:20] Advice for chief executives on how to exude passion and engage like a business founder. [29:48] Allan shares insights on engaging with PE firms and the importance of personalized and informed approaches. [32:13] The effective strategy forPE firms when approaching potential acquisitions, focusing on understanding and aligning with the seller's vision. [35:58] The significance of ensuring continuity of service and customer care in acquisitions. [37:26] Allan recommends influential books and resources for entrepreneurs and business leaders, including his own content platforms. [39:22] Closing remarks, with Allan extending an offer for free consultations with entrepreneurs and expressing his passion for business mentorship.
Thank you for tuning in! | |||
| Mastering investor discipline: Insights on avoiding key mistakes with Maria Pacella | 19 Mar 2024 | 00:26:38 | |
Welcome to The Private Equity Podcast! In this episode, Alex Rawlings has an insightful conversation with Maria Pacella, Managing Partner of Pender Ventures. Maria tells us about the critical mistakes made by investors in Private Equity and Venture Capital, the essence of investor discipline, and valuable learnings from her extensive experience in the investment world. Thank you for tuning in! | |||
| Overcoming adversity to become a serial entrepreneur and successful investor, with Gregory Shepard. | 12 Mar 2024 | 00:38:18 | |
Welcome to The Private Equity Podcast! In this insightful episode, host Alex Rawlings engages with Gregory Shepard, a distinguished entrepreneur, co-founder of BOSS Capital Partners, and a Forbes Books author. Shepard shares his remarkable journey from humble beginnings, growing up in a tent and facing challenges due to his neuro divergences, to becoming a serial entrepreneur with 14 liquidity events and multiple awards under his belt. Breakdown: [00:03] Gregory Shepard's Background: Gregory opens up about his challenging upbringing, living in a tent while building their house, and dealing with autism, dyslexia, synesthesia, and savant syndrome. Despite these obstacles, he went on to build and sell 12 companies, winning four Private Equity awards for transactions between $250 million and a billion. [02:05] Entrepreneurial Journey and Achievements: Gregory discusses his role in significant transactions, including the consolidation of eBay enterprise companies, and his efforts to promote diversity in politics. He also highlights his work on Startup Science, a platform based on his research on why start-ups fail, and his upcoming book, "The Startup Lifecycle." [03:32] Investment Philosophy and Private Equity Insights: Gregory shares his unique perspective on investment, emphasizing the importance of understanding both the founder's and the investor's viewpoints. He discusses common mistakes he sees in Private Equity, such as overvaluation and the failure to focus on real business fundamentals. [09:47] BOSS Operating Support System: Shepard explains how his proprietary system and the StartupScience.io platform help educate founders and investors, improving the success rate of start-ups and investment returns. [19:43] Dealing with Neurodivergence: Shepard speaks candidly about the challenges and advantages of his neurodivergence. He views his condition not as a hindrance but as a set of superpowers that have enabled him to see the world differently and achieve success. [27:25] Altruistic Capitalism: Shepard introduces the concept of using capitalism for altruistic outcomes, such as environmental sustainability and inclusion, highlighting the potential for significant impact and profit. [36:18] Closing: Contact information for Gregory and an invitation to engage further with the discussed topics. To connect with Gregory Shepard, you can visit his LinkedIn Page: Gregory Shepard on LinkedIn. Thank you for tuning in! | |||
| The last podcast you ever need to listen to on the benefit of ESG with Jennifer Wilson | 05 Mar 2024 | 00:54:36 | |
Welcome to The Private Equity Podcast! In this episode, we discuss ESG strategies with Jennifer Wilson, CEO of Re:Co. We delve into how ESG transcends compliance, becoming a catalyst for innovation, risk management, and increased profitability. Our conversation addresses the critical issue of greenwashing and regulatory scrutiny, underscoring the importance of aligning company values with genuine ESG initiatives. We explore the integral role of ESG in the Private Equity cycle, showcasing success stories where ESG integration has led to operational excellence and customer satisfaction. This episode is not just a talk but a practical guide for embedding sustainable practices into the fabric of business, ensuring not only adherence to ethical standards but also securing a competitive edge in the evolving market landscape. Join us for a blueprint for successful, sustainable investing. [00:03] ESG Integration: Jennifer Wilson of Re:Co outlines how ESG contributes to value creation through five key areas: solving global problems, generating profit, reducing risks, lowering capital costs, and boosting employee engagement. [00:31] ESG Success Factors: Jennifer highlights the significance of fully integrating ESG across portfolio companies without divulging specifics. [00:46] Background: Introduction to Jennifer Wilson, her journey before Re:Co, including her roles in finance, strategy, and sustainability. [01:52] Common ESG Mistakes: The major pitfall of viewing ESG merely as a compliance checklist and the importance of strategic integration. [03:38] Value Creation: Discussion on embedding ESG into the core of value creation processes. [08:25] ESG Evolution: Tracing the shift of ESG from an ancillary concern to a central strategy in private equity, particularly in Europe. [12:12] ESG Metrics Challenges: Addressing the complexity of standardizing ESG metrics and the shift towards more mature sustainability reporting. [17:04] Profit vs. Sustainability: Strategies for balancing profitability with ESG objectives. [18:31] Implementing ESG Strategies: Starting points for firms aiming to introduce or enhance ESG strategies. [22:14] ESG as a Differentiator: How ESG distinguishes firms in the competitive landscape. [30:51] Success Stories: Sharing impactful ESG initiatives and their benefits without specific details. [36:37] Data-Driven Processes: Mention of the partnership with Grata highlighting the role of data in private equity. [38:15] ESG's Future: Predictions on ESG's growing role and its potential for firms committed to sustainable strategies. [50:51] Learning Resources: Recommendations for deepening ESG knowledge, including the Financial Times' Moral Money newsletter and book compilations from The Future In Sound podcast. [53:34] Closing: Contact information for Jennifer and an invitation to engage further with the discussed topics. | |||
| Boosting Employee Productivity and Exploring the ESOP Model in Private Equity with Daniel Goldstein | 27 Feb 2024 | 00:39:33 | |
Welcome to The Private Equity Podcast! This episode dives into the transformative world of employee ownership, focusing on the Employee Stock Ownership Plan and how it can drive employee engagement and productivity. Guest Daniel Goldstein, former CEO of Folience and an advocate for employee ownership, shares insights into integrating ESOP within a private equity model, fostering workplace culture, and exploring partial ownership benefits.
[00:00] Introduction: Welcome to the podcast and introduction of Daniel Goldstein. [00:21] Exploring Employee Ownership: Discussion on the benefits of workplace culture improvement and the contrast between U.S. ESOPs and UK EOTs. [01:13] Daniel Goldstein's Background: Overview of Goldstein's career and his approach to employee ownership within the Private Equity model. [02:08] Employee Ownership as a Continuum: Insights into the relationship between family-owned businesses, employee-owned businesses, and Private Equity. [03:33] Advantages of Employee Ownership: Benefits of aligning employee interests with company success. [04:32] Folience's Unique Model: How Folience operates with a fully employee-owned Private Equity model. [05:55] Growth and Diversification Strategy: The strategy behind acquiring businesses and integrating them into the Folience portfolio. [07:50] Tax Efficiency and Ownership Structures: The tax benefits and strategic advantages of employee ownership models. [08:49] Decision Making in an ESOP: Governance and decision-making within an ESOP structure. [11:10] Shared Ownership and Transparency: The role of shared ownership in fostering workplace transparency and collaboration. [13:29] Employee Engagement Without Full Ownership: Strategies to improve engagement without full employee ownership. [14:27] Liquidity Events and Portfolio Company Sales: Effects on employee owners during liquidity events and sales. [18:18] Implementing Partial Employee Ownership: The potential benefits of partial employee ownership. [24:28] The Power of Incentivization: How financial incentives can drive employee productivity. [32:29] The Silver Tsunami: Challenges and opportunities in the generational transfer of wealth and business ownership. [37:16] Contacting Daniel Goldstein: Information for reaching out to Daniel for more discussion on employee ownership. [38:59] Episode Conclusion: Summary and thanks to Daniel Goldstein, with a reminder on how to reach Raw Selection for hiring support.
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| Structured Equity Investing and Strategies for Value Creation with Josh Koplewicz | 20 Feb 2024 | 00:19:01 | |
Introducing Josh Koplewicz
Partnering With Portfolio Management Teams Thank you for tuning in! To get the newest Private Equity episodes, you can subscribe on iTunes or Spotify here. Lastly, if you have any feedback on the podcast or want to reach out t | |||
| How Private Equity can use AI and the how behind digital transformation with Glenn Hopper | 13 Feb 2024 | 00:35:42 | |
In this episode of The Private Equity Podcast, host Alex Rawlings, treats listeners to a deep dive into the realm of artificial intelligence within the Private Equity sphere. Joining Alex as this week's guest is Glenn Hopper, an expert in digital transformation with extensive experience in deploying AI solutions in Private Equity contexts. Throughout the episode, Alex and Glenn explore how AI is reshaping the landscape of Private Equity, offering new avenues for growth, decision-making, and operational efficiency. Glenn shares his insights into the practical applications of AI, emphasizing the importance of understanding the intricacies behind digital transformation.
[00:00] - Introduction to the podcast and today's innovative topic, focusing on the intersection of Private Equity, AI, and digital transformation. [00:45] - Alex Rawlings introduces guest Glenn Hopper, detailing his expertise in finance, technology, and his significant contributions to digital transformation within the Private Equity sector. [02:00] - Glenn shares his journey into the world of finance and technology, highlighting the pivotal moments and the expertise he's developed in AI and digital transformation. [04:30] - Exploring the integration of AI in Private Equity, Glenn discusses the initial challenges and the transformative opportunities that AI presents for the industry. [07:15] - Glenn delves into specific examples of digital transformation in Private Equity, emphasizing the importance and impact of AI in analyzing and making investment decisions. [10:00] - The role of data analytics and AI in due diligence processes, with Glenn providing insights from his extensive experience. [12:20] - Strategies for leveraging technology to create value in Private Equity investments, through Glenn's analytical perspective and innovative approaches. [15:40] - Discussion on the broader implications of technological advancements on the services sector and their significance for Private Equity investors. [18:25] - Glenn offers practical advice for professionals aiming to integrate AI and digital transformation strategies within their investment practices. [20:30] - Glenn's forward-looking views on the evolution of AI in Private Equity and the emerging trends that investors should be aware of. [22:45] - Alex Rawlings concludes the podcast by thanking Glenn Hopper for his invaluable insights and encourages listeners to engage with the topic on social media and various podcast platforms.
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| How Brian organically increased revenue by $50M and created $500M in EBITDA with Brian Cassady | 06 Feb 2024 | 00:47:22 | |
In a compelling episode of The Private Equity Podcast, host Alex Rawlings engages in a insightful conversation with industry veteran Brian Cassady. The focus of this episode is on Brian's exceptional achievement of organically increasing revenue by $50 million and creating an impressive $500 million in EBITDA. | |||
| Key Advice For Every PE-Backed Executive With Matt Sharrers | 06 Aug 2024 | 00:26:18 | |
Welcome to the Private Equity Podcast! In this episode, we dive into the intricate dynamics of managing relationships between CEOs and private equity firms with our guest, Matt Sharrers, founder of ETJ Advisory. Matt shares his extensive experience and insights on how executives can effectively navigate the transition into private equity-backed roles, focusing on the critical aspects of cultural change, value creation, and team management. [00:00] Welcome back to the Private Equity Podcast by Raw Selection. [00:59] Matt Sharrers discusses his background and current role at ETJ Advisory, including his past experiences with SBI and his diverse career path. [01:28] Common errors by private equity firms and portfolio companies. Matt highlights the importance of understanding cultural impacts during CEO succession and aligning with private equity goals. [01:57] Matt's book “The Second CEO” and its focus on helping new CEOs navigate the challenges of taking over from a founder and creating value. [02:25] Advice on managing cultural shifts from a founder-led organization to a private equity-backed company. [03:20] Strategies for defining and implementing new company culture effectively, including the role of top executives and culture champions. [05:10] The importance of defining and communicating company culture and values. How to make culture an active mechanism in hiring, performance reviews, and onboarding. [07:01] The role of the CEO in driving cultural change and the mistakes to avoid, such as deferring too much to private equity firms. [09:56] Involving different levels of the organization in shaping culture and creating buy-in across the board. [11:08] Challenges faced by first-time private equity-backed executives and the importance of understanding private equity models and support. [13:08] Advice on balancing the information advantage of running the business with the guidance and input from private equity partners. [15:34] Insights on how to approach value creation, with a focus on sustainable growth and the importance of a strong team. [18:00] The necessity of adapting team composition as the company scales and evolves, including the need for new talent at different milestones. [19:26] Advice on evaluating and developing talent within the organization to align with growth and value creation goals. [23:20] When to make decisions about team changes and the importance of having the right team in place by mid-year two. [24:20] Matt shares his reading and listening preferences, including books by Arthur Brooks, gratitude journaling, meditation, and sports interests. [25:46] Alex thanks Matt for the insightful discussion on transitioning from founder-led to private equity-backed leadership. Thank you for tuning in! | |||
| How to improve your FP&A process with Paul Barnhurst | 30 Jan 2024 | 00:19:06 | |
Introducing Paul Barnhurst Thank you for tuning in! | |||
| How to grow from $30M to $1.4Bn enterprise value - From shipping clerk to PE-Backed CEO with Ted Clark | 23 Jan 2024 | 00:36:19 | |
Introducing Ted Clarke The Process of Integration | |||
| Improve your Private Equity portfolio exit strategy with Jason Hendren | 16 Jan 2024 | 00:15:50 | |
Introducing Jason Hendren What You Will Learn
Breakdown [01:16] Getting to Know Jason Hendren How to Contact Jason | |||
| The key data points to drive portfolio company growth with Bill Canady | 09 Jan 2024 | 00:33:52 | |
Introducing Bill Canady
Breakdown | |||