REASON FOR SEARCH
THE PRIVATE EQUITY FIRM
The private equity firm is a sector-focused investment firm that partners with entrepreneurs and management teams in the lower-middle market. The firm places significant emphasis on improving customer service and creating a positive work environment for all employees. A culture coach on the board helps ensure the business reaches its full potential.
THE PORTFOLIO COMPANY
The portfolio company designs, develops, and manufactures air movement and control products, focusing on innovation and reliability. With over 30 years of experience, the company prioritizes its customers' needs, maintaining high standards of quality, speed, and flexibility in manufacturing.
THE SEARCH REQUIREMENTS
The ideal candidate needed the following qualifications:
- Manufacturing experience
- HVAC expertise
- Experience with companies having revenues between $40 million to $120 million
- Exit experience
- Experience with acquisition integration in the lower-middle market
- Private equity experience
- Strong collaboration with COO/CEO on operational matters
- Experience across multiple divisions
- Previous experience in one or two PE-backed roles
WHY RAW SELECTION
Dalfort struggled to find a suitable candidate from their own network, especially given the location in a small city with a population of just 150,000. They reached out to Raw Selection for assistance. Raw Selection expanded the search, looking through competitor lists and completing enhanced searches within a 100-mile radius. Despite the challenges, Raw Selection successfully provided a candidate who met all the criteria and was able to start without the need to relocate—all within seven weeks.
THE PROCESS
Raw Selection followed a thorough 15-step process to ensure the best candidate was found. The process involved detailed candidate searches, screening calls, and interviews, ensuring the candidate was a perfect fit for both the role and the company's culture.
THE RESULTS
The search was completed successfully, with a candidate hired who had the exact experience required, including multiple exits and no need to relocate. This allowed Dalfort to fill the CFO position promptly and continue their growth trajectory.
THOUGHTS ON THE SEARCH
Finding a candidate who had the required PE-backed experience, along with exit experience and willingness to relocate to Chattanooga, made this a challenging search. However, the process proved successful, and the company now has a capable CFO to support its growth.
Naya Okereke, Senior Associate at Raw Selection
THOUGHTS ON THE CANDIDATE
The candidate, Carol Black, was a pleasure to work with. Her friendly demeanor and easy collaboration made the placement process smooth. Her successful placement at United Enertech helped the company reduce the risk and costs associated with relocation, proving to be a win-win for both the candidate and the company.
GET IN TOUCH
If your private equity firm is looking to hire new talent for portfolio companies within the industrial sector, please get in contact with Naya Okereke, Senior Associate, at Naya.Okereke@Raw-Selection.com.
