Capital on Call: Interim Deal Support for a Manufacturing-Focused PE Firm

Client Overview

Our client is a private equity firm focused on acquiring lower middle market manufacturing businesses. With a proven track record in executing platform investments and add-on acquisitions, the firm employs an operationally intensive approach to value creation. Its portfolio spans across key sectors including industrials, performance materials, specialty chemicals, metals and metal forming, building products, glass, pulp & paper, and food ingredients. The firm targets companies with solid revenue, strong market positioning, and leadership teams poised for transformation and growth. Since inception, the team has leveraged its operating expertise to drive performance improvements and create sustainable long-term value.

The Challenge / Mandate

The client was actively fundraising for its second fund and had several platform deals in the pipeline requiring near-term execution support. They needed an Interim Deal Support resource who could:

• Build robust LBO models to support investment decision-making
• Assist in basic due diligence efforts for new platform acquisitions
• Collaborate with investment professionals to analyze financial and operational data
• Provide ad hoc deal analysis and presentation materials

The role required someone who could jump in immediately, work independently, and provide support with occasional onsite presence in Ann Arbor, MI. For the right fit, there was also potential for conversion to a full-time role.

Search Strategy

The ideal candidate would bring:

• Investment Banking Experience: At least 2 years of experience, preferably in M&A execution and financial modeling
• Private Equity Exposure: Prior work with or for PE firms was considered a strong plus
• Manufacturing Industry Familiarity: Experience evaluating or operating within industrial sectors was preferred
• Technical and Analytical Skills: Strong LBO modeling skills and the ability to synthesize complex data into actionable insights

Search keywords focused on “Investment Banking OR PE AND Manufacturing” to identify candidates with relevant transactional and sector experience.

The Placement

The selected candidate was a former private equity investment professional and exited founder. He previously built a successful company that democratized access to elite finance careers through tech-enabled training and coaching. Most recently, he served as Head of Private Equity Partnerships at a fast-growing fintech platform, where he worked directly with PE funds to modernize portfolio operations and finance stacks.

This combination of deep financial acumen, entrepreneurial drive, and an understanding of PE value creation made him an ideal interim partner to support deal execution.

The Outcome

The interim professional provided immediate support across multiple live transactions, helping the client refine their models, accelerate due diligence, and maintain deal momentum during a critical fundraising and investment period. His contributions enabled the client to move forward confidently with key investments while freeing up senior partners to focus on investor relations and broader firm-building efforts.