LAYING THE FOUNDATION

A family-owned, multi-generational company, the company is a respected name in Oakland County, Michigan. The company partnered with a private equity sponsor to usher in a new phase of growth.

When the company announced the partnership, they were operating nine locations in Michigan. The private equity sponsor planned to grow the company through strategic acquisitions while evolving from a full-service to an express wash model.

Townsend Search Group had previously worked with both the private equity sponsor and the company, placing the company’s controller in January 2017. In a testament to the strength of this foundation, in August 2022, Townsend was retained by the private equity sponsor to identify a new chief financial officer (CFO) for the growing company.

THE TOWNSEND SEARCH JOURNEY

The newly-created position would call for an executive with significant experience in operational finance and mergers and acquisitions. In addition, the candidate would need the presence to build credibility with investors while operating in a traditionally “blue-collar” sector.

Townsend’s existing relationship with the company afforded us a profound understanding of the company’s culture. Based on a comprehensive discovery process and our knowledge of the consumer services industry, Townsend went to market with a clear picture of the ideal candidate in mind.

After leveraging our robust suite of analytics, research and outreach solutions, we built an initial pool of 74 qualified prospects. We then thoroughly vetted each candidate, presenting a shortlist for consideration.

DELIVERING TALENT. EMPOWERING CHANGE.

A well-structured process allowed Townsend to execute and close the search within 60 days. From the candidates presented, the company ultimately selected an experienced CFO who — having previously served at a multi-site dental services business — had both the credentials and the disposition for the role.

The placement has been successful, and the company’s planned expansion is well underway. The company acquired two competitors this summer, boosting its initial nine locations to 26. The company plans to operate 30 sites by the end of 2022.