Beverly Hills stands as a premier location for private equity firms, attracting industry leaders like Aurora Capital Partners, Platinum Equity, and Canyon Partners LLC. These firms leverage the city’s strategic positioning, robust financial ecosystem, and proximity to Silicon Valley’s innovation hub. The concentration of high-net-worth individuals and sophisticated investment networks makes Beverly Hills an ideal headquarters for transformative private equity strategies. Interested professionals can explore this dynamic landscape and connect with like-minded leaders by joining our community at alexejpikovsky.com/community.
Aurora Capital Partners
Investment Style: Aurora Capital Partners focuses on investing in industrial, business services, and consumer sectors. They emphasize transformational growth through operational improvements, strategic acquisitions, and working closely with management teams.
Portfolio Companies: Aurora’s portfolio includes VLS Environmental Solutions (environmental services), Inhance Technologies (polymer material science), and Pace (non-destructive testing and inspection services).
Founding Date: 1991
Number of Investment Professionals: Over 20
Assets Under Management: Approximately $5 billion
Key Investment Professionals:
- Michael Marino, Managing Partner: Leads Aurora’s strategy and oversees major transactions, specializing in business growth and operational efficiency.
- Randy Moser, Partner: Focuses on value creation and strategic initiatives within Aurora’s portfolio companies.
Recent Exits:
- National Technical Systems (NTS), a provider of qualification testing, inspection, and certification solutions, acquired by Element Materials Technology.
- Restaurant Technologies, Inc. (RTI), a provider of cooking oil management and back-of-house hood and exhaust cleaning solutions, acquired by West Street Infrastructure Partners III, an investment entity managed by Goldman Sachs.
Recent Acquisitions:
- Acquisition of Spray-Tek, a leading provider of custom spray drying services.
- Acquisition of Cold Chain Technologies, a provider of thermal packaging solutions.
Office Locations:
- Beverly Hills (Headquarters): 10877 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 2100, Los Angeles, CA
Website: www.auroracap.com
Quote: “Our focus has always been on partnering with outstanding management teams to build better businesses together.” – Michael Marino, Managing Partner
Platinum Equity
Investment Style: Platinum Equity specializes in mergers and acquisitions in a broad range of business sectors, emphasizing operational improvements and growth strategies. They target businesses across various industries, focusing on corporate divestitures, public-to-private transactions, and private company acquisitions.
Portfolio Companies: Platinum Equity’s portfolio includes Vertiv (critical infrastructure technologies), PAE (global logistics and facilities management services), and Jostens (provider of custom class jewelry, yearbooks, and graduation products).
Founding Date: 1995
Number of Investment Professionals: Over 100
Assets Under Management: More than $36 billion
Key Investment Professionals:
- Tom Gores, Founder and CEO: Leads the firm’s strategic direction and investment strategies, known for his operationally-focused approach.
- Jacob Kotzubei, Partner: Specializes in deal origination and value creation across Platinum’s investments.
Recent Exits:
- Exterion Media, a leading European out-of-home advertising company, sold to Global, the Media and Entertainment Group.
- Wolverine Advanced Materials, a leading provider of performance materials, sold to ITT Inc.
Recent Acquisitions:
- Acquisition of Pelican Products, a leader in rugged, mission-critical protective cases and gear.
- Acquisition of Cabinetworks, one of the largest manufacturers of kitchen and bath cabinetry in the United States.
Office Locations:
- Beverly Hills (Headquarters): 360 North Crescent Drive, Beverly Hills, CA
- Additional Offices: New York, London, Singapore
Website: www.platinumequity.com
Quote: “Our commitment is to drive transformational change that makes a tangible difference in the growth trajectory of our portfolio companies.” – Tom Gores, Founder and CEO
Canyon Partners LLC
Investment Style: Canyon Partners specializes in credit-oriented hedge funds, focusing on opportunistic credit markets. Their approach includes distressed and special situation investments, as well as value-oriented equities.
Portfolio Companies: Canyon manages a diverse range of investments including distressed securities, corporate loans, and real estate assets.
Founding Date: 1991
Number of Investment Professionals: Over 200
Assets Under Management: Approximately over $26 billion
Key Investment Professionals:
- Joshua S. Friedman, Co-Founder: Leads the firm’s overall investment strategy and risk management practices.
- Mitchell R. Julis, Co-Founder: Focuses on distressed and special situation investments, with deep experience in corporate restructuring.
Recent Exits:
- Successful divestment of various distressed debt positions that have achieved target returns.
- Exit from select real estate investments following market improvements.
Recent Acquisitions:
- Increased positions in distressed credit opportunities due to market volatility.
- Strategic acquisitions in value-oriented equity markets.
Office Locations:
- Headquarters: 2000 Avenue of the Stars, 11th Floor, Los Angeles, CA
Website: www.canyonpartners.com
Quote: “Our differentiated edge lies in our ability to navigate complex credit markets and uncover value where others may not.” – Joshua S. Friedman, Co-Founder
OpenGate Capital
Investment Style: OpenGate Capital focuses on transforming lower middle-market businesses through operational improvements and strategic growth initiatives. They invest across a variety of sectors, including industrials, technology, and business services.
Portfolio Companies: OpenGate’s portfolio includes Power Partners (distribution transformers), Duraco Specialty Tapes (pressure-sensitive products), and Bois & Matériaux (building materials distribution).
Founding Date: 2005
Number of Investment Professionals: Over 30
Assets Under Management: Over $2 billion
Key Investment Professionals:
- Andrew Nikou, Founder and CEO: Guides the firm’s strategic vision and operational focus, leveraging extensive experience in transforming lower middle-market businesses.
Recent Exits:
- Sale of Profialis, a leading European supplier of PVC window and door profiles, to OpenGate Capital’s portfolio company Veka.
- Divestiture of Umicore Zinc Chemicals to OpenGate Capital’s portfolio company EverZinc.
Recent Acquisitions:
- Acquisition of Hufcor, a leading global provider of movable walls and partitions.
- Acquisition of Sargent and Greenleaf, a manufacturer of high-security locks.
Office Locations:
- Headquarters: 10250 Constellation Blvd., Suite 2810, Los Angeles, CA
- Additional Offices: Paris
Website: www.opengatecapital.com
Quote: “Our strength lies in our ability to identify opportunities that others overlook and transform those businesses into market leaders.” – Andrew Nikou, Founder and CEO
Leonard Green & Partners
Investment Style: Leonard Green & Partners specializes in investing in middle-market companies, focusing on service sectors such as consumer, business services, and healthcare. They employ a collaborative approach, partnering with management teams to drive growth and value creation.
Portfolio Companies: Leonard Green’s portfolio includes companies such as Mister Car Wash, SRS Distribution, and Life Time Fitness.
Founding Date: 1989
Number of Investment Professionals: Over 50
Assets Under Management: Over $70 billion
Key Investment Professionals:
- John G. Danhakl, Managing Partner: Focuses on investments in service sectors, driving strategic initiatives and growth strategies.
Recent Exits:
- Successful IPO of Mister Car Wash, demonstrating strong market positioning and growth potential.
- Sale of VCA, a leading animal healthcare company, to Mars Inc.
Recent Acquisitions:
- Acquisition of Parts Town, a distributor of OEM foodservice equipment parts.
- Acquisition of CrossFit, a global fitness brand, to expand its market reach and influence.
Office Locations:
- Los Angeles (Headquarters): 11111 Santa Monica Blvd., Suite 2000, Los Angeles, CA
Website: www.leonardgreen.com
Quote: “Our investment philosophy is centered around partnering with exceptional management teams to unlock significant value and drive sustainable growth.” – John G. Danhakl, Managing Partner
Ares Management Corporation
Investment Style: Ares Management Corporation focuses on credit, private equity, and real estate. They aim to deliver innovative investment solutions and drive value creation through deep industry knowledge and operational expertise.
Portfolio Companies: Ares’ portfolio includes Neiman Marcus, Guitar Center, and Smart & Final.
Founding Date: 1997
Number of Investment Professionals: Over 1,500
Assets Under Management: Over $350 billion
Key Investment Professionals:
- Antony P. Ressler, Co-Founder and Executive Chairman: Leads the firm’s strategic direction and long-term vision, focusing on delivering value across various asset classes.
- Michael Arougheti, Co-Founder and CEO: Oversees the firm’s operations and strategic initiatives, driving growth and investment performance.
Recent Exits:
- Exit from Guitar Center through restructuring and financial improvements.
- Successful sale of Neiman Marcus Group through strategic divestment.
Recent Acquisitions:
- Acquisition of CoolSys, a market leader in commercial refrigeration and HVAC services.
- Acquisition of Black Creek Group’s U.S. real estate investment management business.
Office Locations:
- Los Angeles (Headquarters): 2000 Avenue of the Stars, 12th Floor, Los Angeles, CA
- Additional Offices: New York, London, Hong Kong, and other global locations
Website: www.aresmgmt.com
Quote: “Our success is driven by our commitment to delivering differentiated investment solutions and creating value for our investors.” – Michael Arougheti, Co-Founder and CEO
The Gores Group
Investment Style: The Gores Group focuses on acquiring controlling interests in mature and growing businesses which can benefit from Gores’ operational expertise and financial resources. The firm emphasizes value creation through strategic and operational enhancements.
Portfolio Companies: Their portfolio includes Hostess Brands, Verra Mobility, and Tweddle Group.
Founding Date: 1987
Number of Investment Professionals: Over 25
Assets Under Management: Approximately $2.5 billion
Key Investment Professionals:
- Alec Gores, Founder and CEO: Directs the firm’s investment strategy and actively oversees portfolio management and value creation initiatives.
Recent Exits:
- Sale of Hostess Brands to The J.M. Smucker Company for $5.6 billion.
- Successful public offering of Verra Mobility, optimizing its market position and growth potential.
Recent Acquisitions:
- Acquisition of Tweddle Group, a provider of automotive owner’s and service information solutions.
Office Locations:
- Beverly Hills: 9800 Wilshire Blvd., Beverly Hills, CA
Website: www.gores.com
Quote: “By leveraging our operational expertise, we are able to transform businesses into market leaders.” – Alec Gores, Founder and CEO
Clearlake Capital Group
Investment Style: Clearlake Capital Group specializes in private equity and special situation investments, focusing on sectors such as technology, industrials, and consumer. They emphasize operational improvements and strategic growth initiatives to drive value creation.
Portfolio Companies: Clearlake’s portfolio includes Diligent Corporation, EagleView, and Janus International.
Founding Date: 2006
Number of Investment Professionals: Over 70
Assets Under Management: Over $43 billion
Key Investment Professionals:
- José E. Feliciano, Co-Founder and Managing Partner: Leads the firm’s investment strategy, focusing on transformational growth opportunities.
- Behdad Eghbali, Co-Founder and Managing Partner: Drives the firm’s operational improvement initiatives and strategic growth plans.
Recent Exits:
- Exit from Ivanti, enhancing its market positioning through strategic divestment.
- Sale of Provation, a provider of clinical productivity software, to Fortive Corporation.
Recent Acquisitions:
- Acquisition of Quest Software, expanding its technology portfolio.
- Acquisition of Globecomm Systems, enhancing its communications solutions offerings.
Office Locations:
- Santa Monica (Headquarters): 233 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 800, Santa Monica, CA
- Additional Offices: Dallas, London
Website: www.clearlake.com
Quote: “Our unique approach combines deep industry knowledge with operational expertise, allowing us to drive transformative growth in our portfolio companies.” – José E. Feliciano, Co-Founder and Managing Partner
Conclusion
Private equity firms in Beverly Hills represent a dynamic landscape of financial prowess and strategic maneuvering. These firms continue to reshape the economic ecosystem, driving value through calculated investments and meticulous exit planning. Their ability to transform underperforming assets into thriving enterprises remains unparalleled in the financial sector.
As the market evolves, these firms adapt, leveraging deep networks and sophisticated analytical tools to identify and capitalize on emerging opportunities. Their impact extends far beyond mere financial transactions, fundamentally reshaping industries and creating sustainable value.
Want weekly insights into exit strategies and business acquisitions? Subscribe to my YouTube channel at @alexejpikovsky for the latest perspectives on optimizing your exit.