Strengthening Financial Leadership in Private Equity-Backed Manufacturing and Energy Logistics

The Client

Our client is a new Private Equity-backed platform specializing in equipment manufacturing for gaseous products logistics. Formed through the acquisition of a manufacturer of proprietary high-pressure compressed gas storage and transportation systems, the company produces and leases specialty tanks and DOT certified trailers used for transporting and storing compressed natural gas (CNG), renewable natural gas, hydrogen, and cryogenic liquids. Demand for natural gas  fueled distributed power generation to support the expansion of data centers, electrification of the oilfield and backup for grid instability have provided our client with a  significant growth opportunity. 

The Challenge

The CEO aimed to establish a robust foundation for growth and profitability by hiring a hands-on financial leader with a proven track record in establishing accounting controls and systems within a manufacturing environment. This leader needed to play a strategic role on the management team and possess the potential to grow with the business. Boyden faced the challenge of swiftly understanding the culture of a new Private Equity client and meeting the CEO’s expectations.

The VP Finance and Accounting was expected to serve as the company’s primary financial executive and technical accounting resource. This role involved enhancing and managing financial infrastructure, accounting processes, controls, reporting, compliance, treasury processes, and operational metrics. As a key member of the executive team, the individual was tasked with improving operational profitability, supporting business expansions, developing commercial strategies, and ensuring the financial health of the organization.

Establishing a Private Equity platform company with a new business model in energy logistics required a visionary financial leader to steer its ambitious growth trajectory. Here, we explore how Boyden navigated this challenge, securing a strategic VP Finance and Accounting equipped to fortify financial foundations and drive operational excellence.

The Solution

Success in this high-accountability environment required a candidate with exceptional technical accounting skills and a track record of scaling financial functions for growth. Boyden sought candidates with diverse career backgrounds, adaptability, and resourcefulness gained from tackling multiple challenges and leading finance functions in small company settings with limited resources. Experience working for a Private Equity owner, understanding the pace, financial metrics, and performance expectations in such environments, was crucial. Boyden balanced the client’s need for proven expertise with a desire for high energy and enthusiasm.

Boyden’s recruitment strategy included targeted research into Private Equity-backed manufacturing businesses, particularly in South Texas. Extensive networking within the financial services community, including bankers, accounting firms, and consultants, complemented this approach. The use of two experienced search consultants broadened the diversity of networks and expanded the candidate pool.

The Results

Boyden meticulously screened 22 prospects and shortlisted four candidates for client interviews. The finalist, a CPA with early career experience in a public accounting firm, and subsequent roles as Controller and VP of Finance in various industries including a Private Equity-backed manufacturing and services business, stood out. His entrepreneurial spirit, business acumen, focus on process improvement, work ethic, and exceptional leadership qualities were decisive factors in his selection.