Board meetings are a critical tool for private equity firms to drive strategy, track progress, and unlock value. In this episode, Sean Mooney, Lloyd Metz, and Doug McCormick explore how private equity boards operate, from setting agendas and assembling members to balancing tactical updates with strategic discussions.

They discuss the importance of preparation, the role of independent directors, and how to ensure that board meetings foster alignment and productive decision-making. Whether you’re refining your approach or learning how boards work, this episode offers key insights for making meetings count.

Episode Highlights:

2:27 - The strategic purpose of PE board meetings and how they differ from weekly updates.

4:02 - Preparation benefits: How crafting the deck helps teams prioritize objectives.

10:02 - Board composition explained: PE team members, independent directors, and management.

18:48 - The role of independent directors: Strategic value and practical benefits.

27:01 - Structuring meetings: Financial updates, strategy reviews, and actionable takeaways.

34:13 - Avoiding pitfalls: Keeping board discussions strategic, not bogged down by readouts.

47:20 - Board logistics: Meeting frequency, in-person sessions, and practical considerations.

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

Consolidation strategies are a proven way to create value in fragmented markets, but execution is everything. In this episode, Doug McCormick walks through the key principles of launching and scaling a buy-and-build platform, sharing lessons learned from a real-world example in the lawn care industry. Joining Sean Mooney and Lloyd Metz, Doug dives into the essential elements of consolidation success, from developing the investment thesis to building scalable infrastructure and engaging entrepreneurial owners.

The team explores topics like market selection, integration strategies, and how to position a business for the next phase of growth. If you’re considering consolidation strategies or looking to optimize your existing approach, this episode is packed with insights for private equity professionals and business leaders alike.

Episode Highlights:

2:21: Defining core focus areas for consolidation: Subscription revenue, recurring services, and market potential.

3:38: Regional dynamics: Why geography matters and how to build density before scaling nationally.

4:41: Developing a proven investment thesis: Recognizing white space in competitive markets.

9:26: Building the flywheel: How initial acquisitions set the foundation for growth.

16:09: Keeping owner-operators engaged: Strategies for rolling equity and aligning interests.

24:02: Unlocking the benefits of scale: Efficiency in purchasing, customer acquisition, and operational KPIs.

33:37: Integration best practices: Building internal capabilities and avoiding common pitfalls.

36:51: Creating long-term buyer appeal: Building a platform that’s scalable and ready for future growth.

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

Private equity is evolving rapidly, and staying ahead requires innovation in both diligence and value creation. In this episode, Sean Mooney, Lloyd Metz, and Doug McCormick explore the latest tools, trends, and strategies that are reshaping the private equity landscape in 2025.

The conversation dives into cutting-edge approaches to due diligence, including advancements in data analysis, tech diligence, and digital market studies. They also discuss how private equity firms are reimagining value creation, from leveraging AI to optimize operations, to using data visualization and digital tools to drive portfolio success.

Packed with actionable insights and real-world examples, this episode offers private equity professionals a roadmap to thrive in an increasingly competitive and fast-changing environment.

Episode Highlights:

3:13 - How value creation is taking center stage in private equity, with 75% of activity focused on post-acquisition growth strategies.

5:13 - Evolving due diligence: The rise of tech diligence, digital due diligence, and the expanding scope of commercial diligence.

12:54 - Opportunities in AI: How firms use data organization and visualization to unlock new growth potential.

20:24 - Cutting-edge commercial market diligence: Moving beyond market size to find growth strategies that create alpha.

33:37 - Embracing change: Practical steps to adopt game-changing AI tools, from ChatGPT to automated FP&A systems.

39:30 - The future of the CFO’s office: New tools and approaches to optimize productivity and decision-making with AI and automation.

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