Join Lloyd Metz, Doug McCormick, Sean Mooney, and special guest Rob Brown, CEO of Lincoln International, as they discuss the significant changes in private equity and investment banking from the early 2000s to today. This episode covers the pivotal role of company culture in driving growth, adapting to economic shifts, and the strategic use of technology and talent acquisition during downturns. Listen for an in-depth analysis of market trends, the impact of COVID-19, and predictions for the M&A landscape's future.

Episode Highlights:

2:09 - Rob Brown reflects on the transformation of private equity and investment banking since the 2000s.
7:12 - The growth story of Lincoln International and the critical role of culture.
16:55 - Economic trends post-2008 and adjustments leading up to the COVID-19 era.
26:05 - The significance of office presence for culture and mentorship.
32:54 - Utilizing downturns for talent acquisition and investing in AI.
40:58 - Current M&A market conditions and expectations for recovery in 2025.

For more information on the podcast, visit bestbutneverfinal.buzzsprout.com and embark on your journey to private equity excellence today.

Visit us on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/best-but-never-final-podcast/
Visit us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/bestbutneverfinal/

For information on HCI Equity Partners, go to https://www.hciequity.com
For information on ICV Partners, go to https://www.icvpartners.com
For information on BluWave, go to https://www.bluwave.net

Explore the critical aspects of capital structure in the private equity sector with insights from Lloyd Metz, Doug McCormick, and Sean Mooney. This episode breaks down the strategic use of debt versus equity, the implications of leveraging, and the nuances of maintaining lender relationships. It offers a focused look at how private equity professionals navigate risk and optimize returns through smart capital structure choices, essential listening for investors and business owners aiming to understand the financial underpinnings of successful investments.

1:18 - Introduction to the importance of capital structure choices in private equity. 
3:16 - Exploring the balance between risk and return in optimizing capital structure.
6:43 - The leverage effect of using debt in private equity explained through a home-buying analogy.
12:14 - Strategies behind determining the amount of debt to use in private equity investments.
21:29 - Discussion on the types of lenders and the evolving lending landscape. 
33:29 - The influence of capital market health on debt cost and the call for simplicity in capital structure decisions.

For more information on the podcast, visit bestbutneverfinal.buzzsprout.com and embark on your journey to private equity excellence today.

Visit us on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/best-but-never-final-podcast/
Visit us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/bestbutneverfinal/

For information on HCI Equity Partners, go to https://www.hciequity.com
For information on ICV Partners, go to https://www.icvpartners.com
For information on BluWave, go to https://www.bluwave.net

In this episode of Best But Never Final, join Lloyd Metz, Doug McCormick and Sean Mooney as they delve into the seasonal nuances of the private equity world during the summer months. This episode offers a candid look at how private equity professionals balance the demands of work with personal time, reflecting on the impact of summer on investment activities and portfolio management. From discussing the rhythm of deal flows to sharing personal strategies for recharging, the trio provides insights into how the industry adapts and plans for the latter half of the year amidst the backdrop of recurring seasonal patterns and unexpected market dynamics.

Episode Highlights:

• 0:37 - Introduction to the seasonal dynamics of private equity during summer.
• 1:59 - Personal reflections on summer activities and balancing work with family time.
• 5:08 - Insights into how private equity professionals navigate the quieter deal market of summer while staying prepared for the bustling activity post-Labor Day.
• 8:23 - Discussion on the cyclical nature of deal flows and portfolio company initiatives throughout the year.
• 15:01 - Examination of how summer provides a strategic pause for reflection and planning ahead of the busy fall season.
• 19:33 - Consideration of external factors, such as election years, that can influence private equity activities and market sentiment.
• 25:20 - Anticipation of deal market recovery and the readiness of lenders to support transactions in the latter half of the year.

 This episode is an invaluable resource for anyone interested in understanding the ebb and flow of the private equity industry and how professionals within the field strategically navigate these seasonal shifts. Join us for a thoughtful discussion on making the most of the summer slowdown while gearing up for the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead.

For more information on the podcast, visit bestbutneverfinal.buzzsprout.com and embark on your journey to private equity excellence today.

Visit us on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/best-but-never-final-podcast/
Visit us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/bestbutneverfinal/

For information on HCI Equity Partners, go to https://www.hciequity.com
For information on ICV Partners, go to https://www.icvpartners.com
For information on BluWave, go to https://www.bluwave.net

In this episode, hosts Lloyd Metz, Doug McCormick, and Sean Mooney, alongside their expertise in private equity, delve into the nuanced practice of granting equity to employees within portfolio companies. They discuss the strategic importance of aligning incentives, attracting top talent, and instilling an ownership mindset throughout the organization. From stock options to profit interests, explore the mechanisms private equity firms utilize to distribute equity and the impact this has on fostering value creation.

Key Highlights:

• :37 - Setting the stage for the discussion on equity ownership in private equity.
• 10:23 - Examining the reasons behind granting equity to portfolio company employees.
• 20:48 - Detailing the initial phase of value creation and strategic investments.
• 31:04 - Discussing various methods for equity distribution and their implications.
• 39:14 - Addressing the challenges and keys to successfully implementing equity programs.

Listen in to understand how equity ownership serves as a fundamental aspect of the private equity model, promoting a culture of collaboration and success across portfolio companies.

For more information on the podcast, visit bestbutneverfinal.buzzsprout.com and embark on your journey to private equity excellence today.

Visit us on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/best-but-never-final-podcast/
Visit us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/bestbutneverfinal/

For information on HCI Equity Partners, go to https://www.hciequity.com
For information on ICV Partners, go to https://www.icvpartners.com
For information on BluWave, go to https://www.bluwave.net

Dive into an insightful exploration of the critical decision-making process within private equity regarding the timing of exits. Hosts Lloyd Metz, Doug McCormick, and Sean Mooney dissect the lifecycle of a deal, emphasizing the strategic considerations that guide private equity firms in determining the optimal moment to sell. From the initial value creation phase to the meticulous preparation for sale, this episode unveils the art and science behind maximizing returns and successfully navigating the complex M&A landscape.

Key Highlights:

• :37 - Introduction to the episode's focus on the lifecycle of a deal and the timing of exits.
• 2:26 - Discussion on current market perceptions and the inclination towards buying or selling.
• 7:15 - Examination of major value creation categories and their timing in the investment phase.
• 20:48 - Insights into holding deal teams accountable for progress and meeting value creation plans.
• 28:53 - Internal processes for making the sell decision, including considerations and signals.
• 36:09 - The impact of portfolio construction on individual deal performance and fund optimization.
• 47:06 - Addressing the influence of individual track records on fund management and exit strategies.

This episode offers a deep dive into the nuanced strategies that underpin private equity's approach to deal exits, providing valuable lessons on fund management, portfolio optimization, and the intricacies of the sell-side process.

For more information on the podcast, visit bestbutneverfinal.buzzsprout.com and embark on your journey to private equity excellence today.

Visit us on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/best-but-never-final-podcast/
Visit us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/bestbutneverfinal/

For information on HCI Equity Partners, go to https://www.hciequity.com
For information on ICV Partners, go to https://www.icvpartners.com
For information on BluWave, go to https://www.bluwave.net

Episode Description:

Explore the complexities of private equity's strategic approaches to buying and selling across fluctuating market cycles in this episode of "Best But Never Final." Hosts Lloyd Metz, Doug McCormick, and Sean Mooney unpack the essence of private equity operations amidst economic uncertainties, offering a rich discussion on how to maximize outcomes regardless of the market's condition. From the anticipation of black swan events to the tactical maneuvers for both acquisition and divestment, this conversation provides a foundational understanding of private equity's resilience and adaptability.

Key Highlights:

• 2:26 - Current Market Analysis: Lloyd and Doug share their perspectives on being net buyers or sellers in today's economic environment.
• 15:46 - Strategies for Selling: Unveiling tactics to enhance asset value amidst market fluctuations.
• 27:42 - Acquiring with Intent: Discussing the structuring of deals to ensure success in an uncertain market.
• 37:49 - Valuation and Engagement: Highlighting the importance of accurate valuation and building strong relationships for effective deal-making.
• 45:07 - Deal Structuring and Capital Strategy: Exploring innovative approaches to capital and transaction structuring within private equity.

For more information on the podcast, visit bestbutneverfinal.buzzsprout.com and embark on your journey to private equity excellence today.

Visit us on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/best-but-never-final-podcast/
Visit us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/bestbutneverfinal/

For information on HCI Equity Partners, go to https://www.hciequity.com
For information on ICV Partners, go to https://www.icvpartners.com
For information on BluWave, go to https://www.bluwave.net

In this episode of "Best But Never Final," hosts Lloyd Metz, Doug McCormick, Sean Mooney, and special guest Dave Roberts from Houlihan Lokey explore the shifting landscape of M&A markets and the strategic maneuvers private equity firms employ in response.

Episode Highlights:

• 1:04 - Introduction of Dave Roberts and the evolving M&A market's impact on deal flows.
• 9:47 - Performance insights of private equity portfolios amid economic fluctuations.
• 15:11 - Examination of the backlog in deal introductions and the disconnect between buyer and seller expectations.
• 22:00 - The critical role of sponsor coverage in investment banking for bridging between private equity firms and market opportunities.
• 38:03 - Strategies for private equity firms to effectively engage with sponsor coverage professionals and optimize deal outcomes.

For more information on Houlihan Lokey, go to https://hl.com/
For more information on Dave Roberts, go to https://www.linkedin.com/in/dave-roberts-hl

For more information on the podcast, visit bestbutneverfinal.buzzsprout.com and embark on your journey to private equity excellence today.

Visit us on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/best-but-never-final-podcast/
Visit us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/bestbutneverfinal/

For information on HCI Equity Partners, go to https://www.hciequity.com
For information on ICV Partners, go to https://www.icvpartners.com
For information on BluWave, go to https://www.bluwave.net

In this episode of "Best But Never Final," join Lloyd Metz, Doug McCormick, and Sean Mooney as they navigate the choppy waters of today's economic landscape and its implications for private equity portfolio companies. Amidst moderate inflation, groundbreaking technological advancements, and significant geopolitical risks, our hosts dissect how these factors are influencing the strategic direction and operational decisions within their portfolio companies. From analyzing consumer sentiment to unraveling the resilience found within the lower middle market, this episode offers a panoramic view of economic resilience and adaptability.

Listeners will gain insights into:

• 1:27 - An overview of current economic indicators and their impact on the private equity sector.
• 3:35 - The paradox of strong consumer sentiment amidst economic headwinds and what it signals for businesses.
• 9:47 - Real-world reflections on portfolio company performance in the face of economic flux, shared by Doug and Lloyd.
• 15:19 - Strategic moves made by portfolio companies during economic downturns, emphasizing the value of investing in top-tier talent and cutting-edge technology.
• 22:24 - Approaches to nurturing revenue growth and enhancing operational efficiencies during uncertain times, with a focus on innovative pricing and marketing strategies.
• 34:11 - A deep dive into optimizing operations and managing costs, highlighting the importance of continuous process improvement and prudent capital allocation.
• 41:29 - Examining the role of acquisitions and capital structure strategy as tools for navigating economic uncertainty, advocating for a conservative approach to leverage and emphasizing the importance of banking relationships.

This episode is essential listening for anyone looking to grasp the economic nuances affecting private equity and how seasoned veterans like Lloyd, Doug, and Sean utilize this knowledge to strengthen and expand their portfolio companies. Tune into "Best But Never Final" for an insightful journey into the strategies that guide private equity through today's economic challenges and opportunities.

For more information on the podcast, visit bestbutneverfinal.buzzsprout.com and embark on your journey to private equity excellence today.

Visit us on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/best-but-never-final-podcast/
Visit us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/bestbutneverfinal/

For information on HCI Equity Partners, go to https://www.hciequity.com
For information on ICV Partners, go to https://www.icvpartners.com
For information on BluWave, go to https://www.bluwave.net

Dive deep into the heart of private equity diligence processes with Lloyd Metz, Doug McCormick, and Sean Mooney in this insightful episode of "Best But Never Final." The trio unravels the complexities of third-party diligence, shedding light on the essential tools that private equity firms employ to assess, verify, and envision the potential of their investments. From the critical Quality of Earnings review to comprehensive market studies and management assessments, this episode covers the gamut of due diligence activities that underpin successful private equity transactions.

Listeners will explore:

• 1:00 - The pivotal role of third-party diligence in private equity, including the moments that can induce heart palpitations as significant sums are spent without guarantee of a deal closure.
• 8:15 - An in-depth look at the major categories of third-party diligence: Quality of Earnings, market studies, management assessments, legal work, IT diligence, and insurance.
• 15:30 - The nuanced differences between an audit and a Quality of Earnings review, and why the latter is crucial for understanding the true financial performance of a business.
• 22:45 - How market studies (commercial due diligence) and management assessments play a critical role in evaluating the potential and leadership of target companies.
• 30:00 - The sequencing of diligence activities and the strategic importance of each in the investment process, including the evolving landscape of legal, IT, and insurance diligence.

Join Lloyd, Doug, and Sean as they navigate through the diligence landscape, offering invaluable insights into the tools and strategies that define the investigative phase of private equity. Whether you're a seasoned professional or new to the private equity world, this episode provides a comprehensive understanding of the diligence process, highlighting its significance in avoiding pitfalls and unlocking transformative growth opportunities.

For more information on the podcast, visit bestbutneverfinal.buzzsprout.com and embark on your journey to private equity excellence today.

Visit us on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/best-but-never-final-podcast/
Visit us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/bestbutneverfinal/

For information on HCI Equity Partners, go to https://www.hciequity.com
For information on ICV Partners, go to https://www.icvpartners.com
For information on BluWave, go to https://www.bluwave.net

In this engaging episode of "Best But Never Final," hosts Lloyd Metz, Doug McCormick, and Sean Mooney demystify the pivotal role of the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) within the private equity (PE) landscape. As they navigate through the multifaceted responsibilities and evolving nature of the CFO role, the discussion illuminates why a strategic CFO is indispensable for PE-backed companies. From being the co-pilot to the CEO to mastering the art of translation between financials and business operations, this episode explores the journey from a competent to a strategic CFO and the essential traits that define success in this dynamic role.

Listeners will discover:

• 1:45 - The foundational responsibilities of a CFO in PE and the significance of evolving beyond financial reporting to strategic partnership.
• 3:09 - Analogies that capture the essence of the strategic CFO role, comparing it to key figures in military and cinematic narratives.
• 7:47 - The challenges and opportunities in the career progression of a CFO within the fast-paced environment of PE-backed companies.
• 14:24 - How PE firms approach the selection process for a CFO, emphasizing the importance of intellectual horsepower, experience, and interpersonal skills.
• 21:08 - Key strategies for CFOs to excel in their role, highlighting loyalty to the enterprise, integrity, and the ability to be a resource across the organization.
• 35:54 - The nuanced reporting structure of CFOs in PE, including the direct and dotted line reporting to the CEO and the PE firm, respectively.

"Best But Never Final" offers a deep dive into the critical role of the CFO in steering PE-backed companies towards growth and success. Whether you're an aspiring CFO, a seasoned financial leader, or simply fascinated by the strategic interplay within private equity, this episode provides valuable insights into making impactful contributions in the high-stakes world of private equity.

For more information on the podcast, visit bestbutneverfinal.buzzsprout.com and embark on your journey to private equity excellence today.

Visit us on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/best-but-never-final-podcast/
Visit us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/bestbutneverfinal/

For information on HCI Equity Partners, go to https://www.hciequity.com
For information on ICV Partners, go to https://www.icvpartners.com
For information on BluWave, go to https://www.bluwave.net