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Slade Kobran
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Recent Posts
The Data Visibility Gap
The New PE Value Creation Playbook: Part Four
The Data Visibility Gap
In the previous blog, we explored the need for trusted data to run a commercial engine. This article will dive into it deeper because it’s that important.
The interesting challenge is that many portfolio companies have more data than ever. And yet, they have less clarity than they need.
Is Socially Responsible Investing Part of Your Playbook?
Apr 22, 2019, 8:00:00 AM — I’ve been reading a lot about responsible investing. While it’s not a new concept, it’s one that has seen increasing acceptance in the private equity space of late. PwC goes so far as to say ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) issues have “moved from niche to mainstream,” with 81% of respondents to the firm’s recent survey having adopted a responsible investment policy. In addition, the PwC survey finds that more private equity firms are not only concerned about ESG issues, they are turning that concern into action - 91% of respondents either have or are developing a responsible investment policy, according to the report. It’s becoming a business imperative.
Chief Outsiders’ Inside View: The 2019 Bain Private Equity Report
Apr 12, 2019, 12:52:45 PM — This far into private equity’s boom is bound to leave both LPs and GPs wondering how much longer the good times will last. They aren’t retreating so much as proceeding with caution and preparing for stormy weather, whenever it might arrive. The upside is there are ample ways to strike that balance, as the best GPs are stepping up their game to identify targets and sharpen diligence, while simultaneously planning for the worst.
Operating Partners: Creating Value and Driving Organic Growth
Oct 30, 2018, 1:56:28 PM — Operating Partners have a tough job! Many firms are still trying to figure out their Operating Partner strategy They don’t always have input into the deal parameters yet are called-upon to see that the Value Creation Plan fulfill the investment thesis They don’t always have a full seat at the table with the deal partners and may not reap the same type of rewards They are often in the position of working with management teams who are skeptical of their input and not always quick to accept help They are often spread thin across multiple portfolio companies with limited resources These dynamics were on full display at two events I attended recently – The PEI Operating Partners Forum and ACG’s M&A East. While Operating Partners were in abundance at the first event, the second was dominated by deal professionals and board advisors. Surprisingly, much of the messaging was very similar.
Evaluating Board Guidance vs. C-Suite Leadership
Sep 5, 2018, 1:41:01 PM — The difference between a marketing executive working inside the business and on the board A standard part of the private equity playbook is to find seasoned executives to fill seats on the boards of their portfolio companies. Increasingly that includes someone with a strong marketing pedigree who can provide advice, guidance and support to both the management team and the board on an ongoing basis. But this approach may not be enough for many mid-market firms, especially in an environment where acquisition prices are on the rise, exit multiples are shrinking, and the pressure mounts from LPs to deliver outsized returns.