Recently, through an industry relationship with an M&A Financial Advisory Firm, Nenni & Associates was introduced to an established Venture Capital Firm. The Capital Firm has a strong track record of investing in businesses from multiple industries and engaged Nenni & Associates, specifically Jim Schafer, Managing Partner at Nenni, and Ryan McGushin, Account Executive, to conduct an Executive Search for the purpose of finding a CEO to integrate a holding company of facility service businesses, including energy consulting, building code compliance, and fire/life safety.
The role required an entrepreneurial mindset with the ability to build a company from the ground up, as well as a passion for sustainability. The position would include possible late hours at work and a true zeal for the role was necessary. The ideal CEO candidate would also show proven experience in running and scaling service-based businesses. The Venture Capital Firm needed someone who was a thought leader, showed noteworthy credentials, and had significant real estate industry experience.
Jim and Ryan pulled a total of five top-tier candidates from industries such as Energy Performance Contracting, Energy Consulting, Engineering Services, and Energy Efficiency Contracting. They sought candidates using essential criteria, including an ability to lead a diverse workforce, profit and loss experience, an ability to lead and scale businesses focused on providing service vs. construction projects or products, and commercial real estate knowledge and experience.
After interviews, conversations, and relationship building, Ryan and Jim identified three finalists, and eventually found the two who were considered the best fit for the Venture Capital Firm CEO position. Both candidates were highly qualified, and after careful deliberation, an offer was made to the top candidate who met all of the firm’s requirements, including extensive industry knowledge in engineering and energy consulting services, executive presence, and a personality that aligned well with the executive board.
The candidate was compelled to accept the generous offer which was comprised of an LTIP (long-term incentive plan) and a competitive cash compensation package. They were extremely excited about the opportunity and the challenge of growing and scaling a small business. The candidate also agreed that the personality and cultural alignment was an excellent fit with the firm, and overall, they knew this was the right place to transition to for the purpose of continued career growth.
Ryan McGushin has been with Nenni and Associates since February of 2013. As an Account Executive for Energy Solutions, he focuses on talent acquisition, business development, and networking primarily in that area.
Jim Schafer is a Managing Partner for Nenni and Associates, specializing in the areas of Energy Finance and Renewable Energy. Jim’s focus is on market intelligence and network development, consulting with clients to grow their organizations organically.
Jim Schafer, Managing Partner
Jim Schafer is a Managing Partner for Nenni and Associates, specializing in the area of Energy Services and Energy Finance. Jim’s focus is on market intelligence and network development, consulting with clients to grow their organizations organically.
Supporting Team
Ryan McGushinSenior Account Executive – Team Lead