Case Study: Landing a PE Board Role or C-Level Position with a PE-Owned Company

Written By: Gerald O’Dwyer III

The PE Guru — Blackmore Partners, Inc | June 22, 2024

This case study is designed for executives seeking to leverage their backgrounds to land roles such as board member, advisor, consultant, operating partner, or C-level executive within private equity (PE) owned companies. We will explore the strategic use of platforms like CYNDX and PitchBook to identify and connect with suitable PE firms and portfolio companies.

Executive Summary

Executives with a strong track record in the lower middle market often seek opportunities within PE-owned companies. Successfully landing such roles requires targeted networking, thorough market research, and strategic positioning. This case study illustrates how CYNDX and PitchBook can be powerful tools in this process, offering advanced search capabilities, comprehensive data insights, and relationship mapping.

Step-by-Step Process

1. Define Your Target Role and Market

Example Goal: Land a COO position in a PE-owned manufacturing company.

Target Market: Lower middle market PE firms investing in manufacturing companies with $10M-$50M in revenue.

2. Utilize CYNDX for Advanced Search and Discovery

Advanced Search Example:

Industry: Manufacturing
Geography: United States
Revenue Range: $10M-$50M
Keywords: Operational efficiency, process improvement

Visual Display: CYNDX Advanced Search Filters

Precision Filtering Benefits:

Quickly identifies relevant PE firms and portfolio companies.
Filters by specific criteria to match executive expertise with company needs.

3. Leverage PitchBook for In-Depth Company and Deal Profiles

In-Depth Profile Example:

Company: ABC Manufacturing Co.
Financials: Revenue $25M, EBITDA $5M
PE Firm: XYZ Capital
Recent Deals: Acquisition of DEF Manufacturing, strategic growth plans

Visual Display: PitchBook Company Profile

Detailed Metrics Benefits:

Provides a comprehensive overview of the company’s financial health and strategic direction.
Offers insights into the PE firm’s investment strategy and compatibility.

4. Relationship Mapping and Networking

CYNDX Relationship Mapping:

Maps connections between executives, companies, and investors.
Identifies key stakeholders and potential partners.

Visual Display: CYNDX Relationship Map

Benefits:

Reveals strategic opportunities and connections within the executive’s network.
Helps pinpoint relevant PE firms and portfolio companies.

5. Proactive Monitoring and Customized Alerts

PitchBook Custom Alerts:

Set alerts for industry developments, new deals, or specific companies.
Stay informed about relevant opportunities.

Visual Display: PitchBook Custom Alerts

Benefits:

Ensures executives are up-to-date with the latest market trends and opportunities.
Supports proactive engagement with potential employers.

Sample Email Messages

Initial Introduction

Subject: Exploring Potential Opportunities for Collaboration


Dear [Recipient's Name],
I hope this email finds you well. My name is [Your Name], and I have extensive experience in the manufacturing sector, particularly in driving operational efficiency and process improvement.
I am reaching out to explore potential opportunities for collaboration with [PE Firm Name] or any of your portfolio companies. Given your focus on the manufacturing industry, I believe my background could significantly contribute to achieving strategic objectives.
I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my skills and experiences align with your current needs. Please let me know a convenient time for a brief conversation.
Thank you for your consideration.

Best regards, [Your Name] [LinkedIn Profile] [Contact Information]

Follow-Up Email

Subject: Follow-Up on Collaboration Opportunities


Dear [Recipient's Name],
I hope you are doing well. I wanted to follow up on my previous email regarding potential opportunities for collaboration. 
As a reminder, I have a strong track record in the manufacturing sector, specializing in operational efficiency and process improvement. I am confident that my skills and experiences can add value to [PE Firm Name] or your portfolio companies.
I would appreciate the chance to discuss this further and explore how we might work together. Please let me know if there is a convenient time for a brief call or meeting.
Thank you for your time and consideration.

Best regards, [Your Name] [LinkedIn Profile] [Contact Information]

Summary of Benefits for Executives

Precision Targeting: Both CYNDX and PitchBook enable executives to precisely target PE firms and portfolio companies that align with their industry experience and expertise.
Comprehensive Insights: Detailed data and insights from both platforms support well-informed decision-making and strategic connections.
Networking and Relationship Building: Relationship mapping and comprehensive profiles help executives build and strengthen connections with relevant PE firms and key stakeholders.
Proactive Monitoring: Customized alerts and real-time updates ensure executives stay ahead of industry trends and opportunities.
Sector-Specific Focus: Tailored analysis and sector-specific data support targeted business development strategies, enhancing the likelihood of successful connections.

By leveraging CYNDX and PitchBook, executives can effectively navigate the private equity landscape, identify strategic opportunities, and secure roles that align with their expertise and career aspirations.

Case Study: Landing a PE Board Role or C-Level Position with a PE-Owned Company