Gent & Associates

CFO Search for a PE-Owned Company with First-Time Institutional Capital

A private equity-backed company with $30 million in annual revenue engaged us to recruit its first CFO. Following its first institutional capital raise, the company needed financial leadership to build its finance function, ensure compliance with PE reporting requirements, and drive value creation for investors. We have successfully completed this type of search numerous times across various industries, including Manufacturing, Consumer, SaaS, Services, Healthcare and more.

Client Overview

The client, a PE-backed company, required a strategic financial leader to oversee its transition to a professionally managed organization and support aggressive growth plans.

Challenges

First-Time Financial Leadership: No existing finance department, requiring a CFO capable of building one from scratch.
Private Equity Expertise: Needed deep experience in PE environments, reporting, and value-creation strategies.
Scalability Needs: Required systems and processes to support rapid growth.
Cultural Fit: Transitioning into a founder-led organization while establishing credibility with PE investors.

Strategy

Role Definition: Collaborated with the PE firm and CEO to define the CFO�s responsibilities, focusing on strategic planning, financial infrastructure, and investor relations.
Targeted Candidate Search: Sourced candidates with experience in first-time financial leadership, building teams, and working in PE-backed firms transitioning to institutional capital.
Screening and Assessment: Evaluated technical expertise, leadership skills, and cultural alignment with the entrepreneurial environment.
Timely Placement: Delivered a shortlist of candidates within five weeks, ensuring a swift resolution to the client�s needs.

Outcome

Placement: Hired a CFO with over 15 years of experience, including CFO roles in two PE-backed companies transitioning to institutional capital.
Immediate Impact:
- Implemented an ERP system, improving financial reporting accuracy and efficiency.
- Developed KPIs to align financial metrics with operational goals and PE expectations.
- Established a monthly reporting process for transparent investor communication.
Long-Term Contributions:
- Built a finance team by hiring a Controller and Financial Analyst for long-term scalability.
- Identified $2 million in EBITDA improvements through cost optimization and revenue enhancements.
- Supported M&A efforts by preparing financial models and due diligence materials.

Key Takeaways

This case highlights the transformative impact of a CFO with private equity expertise, who can transition a founder-led organization to a high-performing, professionally managed company. Building financial infrastructure, aligning with investor expectations, and achieving aggressive growth targets are all made possible with the right leadership.