Our Team

PPC Team

Vice President – Services

Alyson Aurand is a Vice President on the Services team for PPC. Alyson works with Valicor and EDP. Alyson joined PPC in 2024. Prior to PPC, Alyson was a Senior Associate at Wind Point Partners and a Business Analyst at McKinsey & Company. Alyson received her M.S. from the University of Texas at Austin and her B.S. from Clemson University.

Principal – Services

Ben Barry is a Principal on the Services team for PPC. Ben works with Kenco Logistics, Lawley, and Valicor. Ben initially joined PPC in 2017 as an Associate and rejoined in 2021 after serving as Chief of Staff at Valicor, a PPC Company, for one year. Prior to PPC, Ben was an Associate at Summit Partners and an Investment Banking Analyst at Baird. Ben received his B.B.A. from Emory University.

Executive Assistant

Haley Bass is an Executive Assistant for PPC. Haley joined PPC in 2022. Prior to PPC, Haley was an Executive Assistant at the Medical College of Wisconsin. Haley received her B.A. from St. Norbert College.

Senior Finance Associate

Ellie Baumgartner is a Senior Finance Associate for PPC. Ellie joined PPC in 2024. Prior to PPC, Ellie was a Senior Auditor for Deloitte - Chicago, primarily serving Private Equity and Real Estate clients. Ellie received her M.Acc. and B.S. from the University of Missouri.

Executive Assistant

April Bennett is an Executive Assistant for PPC. April joined PPC in 2025. Prior to PPC, April was an Executive Assistant at Invenergy and Thornton Tomasetti. April received her B.A. from Northern Illinois University and is a LEED Green Associate, a credential from the U.S. Green Building Council that showcases her expertise in sustainable building practices.

Associate

Alyssa Brand is an Associate for PPC. Alyssa joined PPC in 2025. Alyssa works with PLZ and Sugar Foods. Prior to PPC, Alyssa was an Associate at PSG and an investment banking Analyst at Baird. Alyssa received her B.S. from Drake University, where she was a four-time letter winner and Captain of the soccer team.

Assistant General Counsel, Chief Compliance
and ESG Officer

Chris Brannan serves as the Assistant General Counsel, Chief Compliance Officer, and the Environmental, Social & Governance (ESG) Officer for PPC. As Assistant General Counsel, Chris works with PPC and the PPC Companies on regulatory compliance, transaction execution, and various other legal matters. As ESG Officer, Chris manages PPC’s communications and tracking programs related to ESG and works with the Firm and the PPC Companies to further ESG efforts and initiatives. Chris joined PPC in 2017 as Assistant General Counsel. Prior to PPC, Chris was an attorney in the M&A practices at Winston & Strawn LLP and O’Melveny & Myers LLP.  Prior to law school, Chris was a Tax/Assurance Associate at PwC, where he received his CPA license (inactive). Chris received his J.D. from the University of Michigan Law School and his B.A. from Bucknell University where he was a member of the baseball team.

Operating Partner - Manufactured Products

Chris Brickman is an Operating Partner for PPC and co-leads the Firm’s Manufactured Products team. Chris works with Bardstown Bourbon Company, C.H. Guenther, Monogram Foods, and Sugar Foods. Chris joined PPC in 2023. Prior to PPC, Chris served as President and CEO of Sally Beauty Holdings. Previously, Chris held several senior positions at Kimberly-Clark Corporation, including President – International Consumer, President – Kimberly-Clark Professional, and Senior Vice President of Strategy. Prior to Kimberly-Clark, Chris was a Partner at McKinsey & Company after serving as President & CEO of Whitlock Packaging Corporation. Earlier in his career, he held positions at Guinness Brewing Worldwide and The NutraSweet Company after starting his career at Boston Consulting Group. Chris received his B.A. from Occidental College.

Vice President - Manufactured Products

Spenser Brown is a Vice President on the Manufactured Products team for PPC. Spenser works with Buckman, NAI Group, and Plaskolite. Spenser joined PPC in 2022. Prior to PPC, Spenser was an Associate at Madison Dearborn Capital Partners and previously was an investment banking Associate, Senior Analyst, and Analyst at Citi. Spenser received his M.B.A. from the Stanford Graduate School of Business and a dual B.S. from Milwaukee School of Engineering, where he graduated as valedictorian and served as an Assistant Coach for the NCAA DIII men's ice hockey team. Spenser is a Chartered Financial Analyst® (CFA®).

Investment Partner - Services

Anthony Cardona is an Investment Partner on the Services team for PPC. Anthony works with Highline Warren, Kenco Logistics, Lawley, and Valicor. Anthony initially joined PPC in 2014 as an Associate and re-joined in 2018 after business school. Prior to PPC, Anthony was an Investment Banking Analyst at Lincoln International. Anthony received his M.B.A. from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University and his B.S. from Washington and Lee University.

Head of Technology

Jeff Carlson is Head of Technology for PPC and oversees PPC’s IT team and provides strategic and tactical guidance as well as develops cross-collaboration across the IT professionals at the PPC Companies. Jeff joined PPC in 2020 after previously having served as Director of Information Technology at Pritzker Group since 2014. Prior to PPC/Pritzker Group, Jeff was a Vice President of Information Technology at SunTrust Robinson Humphrey, a Vice President at Bank of America, and a Senior Developer at Vista Software Solutions (now JDA Software). Jeff received his M.S. and B.S. from Northern Illinois University.

Associate

Demetre Carnot is an Associate for PPC. Demetre works with PathGroup and Plaskolite. Demetre joined PPC in 2024. Prior to PPC, Demetre was an investment banking Analyst in the Industrial Growth Products group at William Blair. Demetre received his B.S. from Miami University.

Operating Partner – Commercial

Carter Cast is an Operating Partner for PPC and works across the PPC Companies on commercial excellence activities that drive primary demand. Carter joined PPC in 2023 after having served as a Senior Advisor to the Firm for many years. Carter concurrently serves as the Michael S. and Mary Sue Shannon Clinical Professor of Entrepreneurship at Northwestern University's Kellogg School of Management. He is also a member of the board of directors for the global snacking company Kellanova (NYSE: K). Prior to his teaching career, Carter launched and served as CEO of Walmart.com and was part of the launch team for Blue Nile, Inc., an online seller of diamonds and fine jewelry. Earlier in his career, Carter spent over a decade at PepsiCo Inc. where he ran the corn chip and salsa categories for Frito Lay, Inc.  Carter received his M.B.A. from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University and his B.A. from Stanford University.

Investment Partner - Manufactured Products

Thomas Chadwick is an Investment Partner on the Manufactured Products team for PPC. Thomas works with Aurorium, Buckman, NAI Group, Plaskolite, and Technimark. Thomas joined PPC in 2017 as a Vice President. Prior to PPC, Thomas was an Associate at Madison Dearborn Capital Partners and an Investment Banking Analyst at Deutsche Bank. Thomas received his M.B.A. from Harvard Business School and his B.B.A. from the University of Wisconsin – Madison.

Human Resources Generalist

Esther Choi is a Human Resources Generalist for PPC and supports all internal HR functions at PPC. Esther joined PPC in 2022 as Human Resources Coordinator. Prior to PPC, Esther was a Human Resources Coordinator and Office Manager at Envoy Global, a Legal Assistant at Trivedi & Khan, P.C., and a Customer Service Specialist at the Georgia Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division. Esther received her B.B.A. from Georgia State University.

Partner
and Head of Global Strategic Partnerships

Rebecca Converse, Partner, is the Head of Global Strategic Partnerships for PPC. Rebecca focuses on developing relationships and communications for PPC’s investor partners as well as oversees PPC’s events, marketing, and communications team. Rebecca joined PPC in 2021. Prior to PPC, Rebecca founded and served as Managing Principal of Cycle Communications, a specialty consulting group focused on investor relations and communications development initiatives for private equity firms and investors. Previously, Rebecca began her career and spent 17 years with Wind Point Partners, where she was ultimately the Director of Investor Relations, Marketing, and Communications. Rebecca received her M.B.A. from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University and her B.A. from the University of Michigan.

Receptionist

Keirsten Culler is a Receptionist at PPC. Keirsten joined PPC in 2025. Prior to PPC, Keirsten was an Administrative Intern at CBIZ. Keirsten received her B.B.A. from Cleveland State University.

Finance Manager

Bradley Davis is the Finance Manager for PPC and supports financial reporting, fund management functions, and accounts payable process. Bradley joined PPC in 2019 as a Senior Accountant. Prior to PPC, Bradley was a Senior Associate at RSM US LLP where he focused on private equity tax compliance. Bradley received his dual B.S. from Indiana University. Bradley is a licensed Certified Public Accountant (CPA) in Illinois.

Senior Associate - Partner Relations
and Marketing

Brooke DelPiccolo is a Senior Associate on the Partner Relations and Marketing team for PPC and focuses on materials development, information requests, and portal management for the Firm’s investor partners. Brooke joined PPC in 2022. Prior to PPC, Brooke was a Senior Associate at Dubin Clark & Company, Inc., an Analyst at Deutsche Bank, and held an investor relations support role at Audax Group. Brooke received her B.A. and B.B.A. from the University of Wisconsin – Green Bay.

Principal - Manufactured Products

Kaitlyn Desai is a Principal on the Manufactured Products team for PPC. Kaitlyn works with Americhem, PLZ, and ProAmpac. Kaitlyn joined PPC in 2019 as a Vice President after serving as an intern during business school. Prior to PPC, Kaitlyn was an Associate Director at SSA & Company, a Finance Coordinator at Livestream, and an Analyst at Deutsche Bank. Kaitlyn received her M.B.A. from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business and her B.A. from Claremont McKenna College, where she was a Robert Day Scholar and four-time letter winner as a member of the lacrosse team.

Vice President – Operations Management

Alex Dexeus is a Vice President of Operations Management for PPC. Alex works across the Family of Companies on acquisition integrations, project management, and operational improvement initiatives. Prior to PPC, Alex attended business school and was an intern with Plaskolite as Finance Project Manager. Prior to business school, Alex worked at ExxonMobil where he served as a Project Manager for major chemical plant expansion projects and as a Product Manager for ExxonMobil’s specialty chemicals business. Alex received his M.B.A. from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business, his B.S. in Engineering from Purdue University, and is an actively licensed Professional Engineer.

Controller

James Dziubla is the Fund Controller for PPC. James joined PPC in 2024. Prior to PPC, James was a Director of Fund Administration at E78 Partners where he oversaw accounting, financial reporting, and investor relations services for private equity clients. James began his career as a financial services auditor at RSM and PwC. James received his B.S. from the University of Illinois at Chicago.

Vice President – Manufactured Products

Anna Edgcomb is a Vice President on the Manufactured Products team for PPC. Anna works with Americhem, ProAmpac, and Sugar Foods. Anna initially joined PPC in 2019 as an Associate and re-joined the Firm in 2024 after business school. Prior to PPC, Anna was an Investment Banking Analyst at Bank of America Merrill Lynch. Anna received her M.B.A. from The University of Chicago Booth School of Business and received her B.B.A. from Texas Christian University.

Vice President - Financial Performance

Amanda Essay is Vice President – Financial Performance for PPC. Amanda works with PPC and across the PPC Companies on accounting, finance, and reporting matters. Amanda joined PPC in 2018 as Finance Manager. Prior to PPC, Amanda was a Transaction Services Senior Associate and Associate at PwC’s capital markets and accounting advisory group. Amanda received her M.S. and her B.A. from Vanderbilt University, where she was a four-time monogram winner as a member of the soccer team. Amanda is a licensed Certified Public Accountant (CPA) in Illinois.

Vice President – Services

Andrew Farwell is a Vice President on the Services team for PPC. Andrew works with HeartLand and Highline Warren. Andrew initially joined PPC in 2020 as an Associate and re-joined in 2025 after business school. Prior to PPC, Andrew was an Investment Banking Analyst at Baird. Andrew received his M.B.A. from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business and his B.B.A. from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

Senior Associate

Erica Friedman (Kosches) is a Senior Associate for PPC. Erica works with Highline Warren. Erica joined PPC in 2023 as an Associate. Prior to PPC, Erica was an investment banking Associate at William Blair and a consultant in Deloitte’s M&A group. Erica received her B.A. from Northwestern University.

President
and Head of Operations

David Gau is President and Head of Operations for PPC. David joined PPC in 2014 and previously served as Chief Operating Officer, an Operating Partner and Co-Head of the Manufactured Products sector team. David works with Aurorium, Bardstown Bourbon Company, C.H. Guenther & Son, HeartLand, Highline Warren, Monogram Foods, PathGroup, Plaskolite, PLZ, ProAmpac, and Technimark. David joined PPC after a 30-year career building and operating multi-national organizations. Prior to PPC, he served as CEO of Intersystems, a manufacturer of material handling equipment for agricultural and industrial applications. Previously, held leadership roles as EVP of Global Commercial Operations and Group President of Industrial Fluid Power for Gates Corp. and as President of Air System Components, a division of Tomkins. David received his B.S. from the University of Nebraska at Omaha.

Operating Partner – Manufactured Products

Dwight Gibson is an Operating Partner – Manufactured Products for PPC. Dwight works with Americhem, Aurorium, Buckman, NAI Group, and Plaskolite. Dwight joined PPC in 2024. Prior to PPC, Dwight served as President and Chief Executive Officer of BlueLinx Corporation, a publicly traded Building Materials Distribution company. Prior to BlueLinx, he served as Chief Commercial Officer for SPX Flow Corporation and previously held a variety of senior management roles at Trane Technologies (formerly known as Ingersoll Rand). Dwight began his career as a consultant with McKinsey & Company. He is also a Board member for Holcim, a publicly traded global producer of cement and aggregate products, and Interface Corporation, a publicly traded commercial flooring manufacturer. Dwight received his M.Sc. from the London School of Economics, his M.B.A from the Stanford Graduate School of Business, and his B.B.A. from Howard University.

Senior Associate

Parker Hewitt is a Senior Associate for PPC. Parker works with Kenco Logistics. Parker joined PPC in 2023 as an Associate. Prior to PPC, Parker was an Investment Banking Analyst at Moelis & Company. Parker received his B.S. from Indiana University.

Chief Financial Officer – Operations Group

David Hirsch is Chief Financial Officer – Operations Group for PPC. David focuses on accounting, finance, and reporting across the PPC Companies. David initially joined PPC (then PGPC) in 2013 as Vice President – Finance. Prior to PPC, David was a Transaction Services Manager at Crowe and a Senior Auditor at Deloitte. David received his M.A.S. and B.S. from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. David is a Certified Public Accountant (inactive).

Vice President - Manufactured Products

Patrick Hodan is a Vice President on the Manufactured Products team for PPC. Patrick works with Aurorium, C.H. Guenther, and PLZ. Patrick initially joined PPC in 2020 as an Associate and re-joined in 2025 after business school. Prior to PPC, Patrick was an investment banking associate in the Services & Industrials Group at William Blair in Chicago. Patrick received his M.B.A. from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business and his B.B.A. in finance from the University of Notre Dame where he was a four-time monogram winner as a member of the soccer team.

Principal - Manufactured Products

Phil Iler is a Principal on the Manufactured Products team for PPC. Phil works with Bardstown Bourbon Company, C.H. Guenther, Monogram Foods, and Sugar Foods. Phil initially joined PPC in 2016 as an Associate and re-joined the Firm in 2020 after business school. Prior to PPC, Phil was an Investment Banking Analyst at SunTrust Robinson Humphrey. Phil received his M.B.A. from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business and his B.S. in Finance from Wake Forest University.

Associate

Michael Janis is an Associate for PPC. Michael joined PPC in 2025. Michael works with Aurorium and Lawley Insurance. Prior to PPC, Michael was an investment banking Analyst at Goldman Sachs. Michael received his B.A. from The University of Chicago, where he was a four-year member of the football team.

Associate

Kailash Jayaraman is an Associate for PPC. Kailash joined PPC in 2025. Kailash works with Buckman and Technimark. Prior to PPC, Kailash was an investment banking Analyst at Greenhill & Co. Kailash received his B.S.B.A. from Washington University.

Vice President – Operations
and Strategic Finance

Matthew Kasper is Vice President – Operations & Strategic Finance for PPC. Matthew works with the PPC Companies to support the execution of strategic, financial, and operational value creation initiatives. Matthew joined PPC in 2020 as an Associate. Prior to PPC, Matthew was an investment banking Analyst at RBC Capital Markets. Matthew received his B.S. from Indiana University.

Investment Partner - Services

Eric Kieras is an Investment Partner for PPC and co-leads the Firm’s Services team. Eric works with EDP, HeartLand, and Kenco Logistics. Eric joined PPC in 2020. Prior to PPC, Eric was a Managing Director at JZ Partners and previously an investment banker at P&M Corporate Finance. Eric received his B.B.A. from the University of Michigan.

Paralegal

Jen Klein is a Paralegal for PPC. Jen supports an array of legal aspects of PPC and PPC Company operations, including regulatory compliance, transaction execution, and other governance matters. Jen joined PPC in 2022. Prior to PPC, Jen held several roles operational support roles at Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP, Jenner & Block LLP, Aon, and Bartlit Beck LLP. Jen completed the Paralegal Studies program at Webster University and received her B.S. from the University of Missouri.

Coordinator, Strategic Partnerships

Arielle (Ari) Kohn is a Coordinator on the Strategic Partnerships team for PPC. Ari joined PPC in 2025. Prior to PPC, Ari worked as a Client Services Manager at The Kaleidoscope Group, a human capital consulting firm. Ari received her B.A. from the University of Michigan.

Associate

Alli Kothari is an Associate for PPC. Alli works with EDP and Monogram Foods. Alli joined PPC in 2024. Prior to PPC, Alli was a Strategy & Business Operations Associate at Shiftsmart and an Investment Banking Analyst at Raymond James. Alli received her B.S. from the University of Michigan, where she was a four-time letter winner as a member of the lacrosse team.

Technology Project Manager

Keely Krugler is a Technology Project Manager for PPC and focuses on assisting with technology initiatives at the Firm as well as the PPC Companies. Keely joined PPC in 2022. Prior to PPC, Keely held various technology consulting roles at Accenture and Baker Tilly. Keely received her B.B.A. from the University of Wisconsin – Madison.

Senior Associate

Emma Lee is a Senior Associate for PPC. Emma works with ProAmpac. Emma joined PPC in 2023 as an Associate. Prior to PPC, Emma was an Investment Banking Analyst at Goldman Sachs. Emma received her M.S. from Clemson University.

Principal – Services

Mike Manno is a Principal on the Services team for PPC. Mike works with EDP, HeartLand, Highline Warren, and PathGroup. Mike joined PPC in 2021. Prior to PPC, Mike was Vice President at Flexpoint Ford, an Associate at Genstar Capital, and an Investment Banking Analyst at Baird. Mike received his M.B.A. from Harvard Business School and his B.S. from the University of Notre Dame.

IT Support Specialist

Connor Marks is an IT Support Specialist for PPC and focuses on supporting day-to-day technology and IT needs. Connor joined PPC in 2022. Prior to PPC, Connor provided executive IT support at Ferrara Candy Company. Connor received his B.A. from the University of Iowa.

Executive Assistant

Crystal Massa is an Executive Assistant for PPC. Crystal joined PPC in 2024. Prior to PPC, Crystal supported executives in real estate development, investment banking, and entertainment. Crystal received her B.A. from Northeastern Illinois University.

Managing Partner
and Head of Investing

Michael Nelson is the Managing Partner and Head of Investing for PPC. Michael joined PPC in 2012 and previously served as an Investment Partner and Co-Head of the Manufactured Products sector team. Michael works with Aurorium, Energy Distribution Partners, Highline Warren, Kenco Logistics, NAI Group, Technimark, and Valicor. Prior to PPC, Michael was a Managing Director at Wind Point Partners, a private equity investment firm based in Chicago, where he led investments in specialty manufacturing and packaging and served on the boards of seven different portfolio companies. Prior to Wind Point, Michael co-founded and served as Vice President of Finance for Esurg Corporation, a private equity-backed distributor of medical and pharmaceutical supplies. Previously, Michael spent four years in investment banking with Vector Securities. Michael serves on the board of the Chicago Jesuit Academy, which provides a full-scholarship college prep educational opportunity for economically disadvantaged youth in Chicago. Michael received his M.B.A. from Harvard Business School and his B.B.A. from the University of Michigan.

Legal & Compliance Associate

Lana Passarelli is a Legal & Compliance Associate for PPC. Lana joined PPC in 2024 and assists with legal and regulatory compliance matters. Prior to PPC, Lana held positions in legal and operational capacities at GEM Realty Capital, Sterling Bay, and Green Courte Partners. Lana received a B.S. from Roosevelt University and a Corporate Certificate in Paralegal Studies from Loyola University Chicago.

Associate, Partner Relations
and Marketing

Casey Perz is an Associate on the Partner Relations and Marketing team for PPC and focuses on developing information tracking systems, firm-wide marketing materials, PR initiatives, and other communications. Casey joined PPC in 2023. Prior to PPC, Casey was a Marketing Analyst at GCM Grosvenor. Casey received her B.A. from Indiana University.

Chief Financial Officer

Andrew Petri is the Chief Financial Officer for PPC.  Andrew joined PPC in 2025 and leads the firm’s efforts in accounting, financial reporting, tax, fund operations and administration.  Prior to PPC, Andrew was the Chief Financial Officer and Chief Compliance Officer of Pfingsten Partners, a lower middle market private equity firm in Chicago, and an auditor at Ernst & Young.  Andrew also serves on the board of the Midwest Chapter of the Private Equity CFO Association.  Andrew received his B.B.A. and a MACC from University of Wisconsin and is a registered Certified Public Accountant (CPA).   

Event Manager

Kayley Pitman is an Events Manager for PPC. Kayley joined PPC in 2024. Prior to PPC, Kayley was a Meeting and Event Specialist at Tempus Labs, Inc. Previously, she was an Events Coordinator at SmithBucklin. Kayley received her B.S. from the University of Colorado at Boulder.

Co-Founder, Chairman,
and Chief Executive Officer

Tony Pritzker is Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of PPC, where he has spent over twenty years as an active investor and board member in middle-market companies across the manufactured products and business services segments. Tony works with Bardstown Bourbon Company, C.H. Guenther & Son, Kenco Logistics, PLZ, and ProAmpac. Tony’s operating experience includes serving as Chairman of AmSafe Partners, a manufacturer of aircraft seating restraints; President of Baker Tanks, a national tank and pump equipment rental business; and a variety of leadership roles at Marmon Group, where he served as a Group Executive. Tony supports a variety of causes and campaigns and currently serves as a Director or Board Member of the following institutions: Anthony Pritzker Family Foundation, International Medical Corps, Pritzker Family Foundation, the UCLA Institute for Carbon Management, and the US Olympic and Paralympic Foundation. For his stewardship, Tony has received honors from UCLA Neurosurgery, Friends of Sheba Medical Center in Israel, Young Presidents’ Organization, and the American Jewish University’s Brandeis Bardin Institute. Tony received his M.B.A. from The University of Chicago Booth School of Business and his B.A. from Dartmouth College.

Executive Assistant

Rachel Roberts is an Executive Assistant for PPC. Rachel joined PPC in 2023. Prior to PPC, Rachel worked with several high-level executives in entertainment, real estate, and consumer products. Rachel received her B.A. from the University of Wisconsin – Madison.

Accounts Payable Clerk

Miguel Roman is the Accounts Payable Clerk for PPC and oversees invoicing, cash reconciliation, and the billing database. Miguel joined PPC in 2022. Prior to PPC, Miguel was an Accounts Payable Specialist at USG Corporation. Miguel received his B.S. from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.

Associate

Mason Schilling is an Associate for PPC. Mason works with Valicor. Mason joined PPC in 2024. Prior to PPC, Mason was an investment banking Analyst at Goldman Sachs. Mason received his B.S. from Duke University.

Associate

Dennis Schmandt is an Associate for PPC. Dennis joined PPC in 2025. Dennis works with Bardstown Bourbon Company and HeartLand. Prior to PPC, Dennis was an investment banking Analyst at Moelis & Company. Dennis received his B.S. from the University of Illinois.

Senior Executive Assistant

Judy Schroffel is a Senior Executive Assistant for PPC. Judy joined PPC / PGPC in 2001. Prior to PPC / PGPC, Judy worked as an Executive Assistant at JMB. Judy received her B.A. from Washington University.

Head of Digital Transformation

Anish Sharan is Head of Digital Transformation for PPC. Anish focuses on spearheading digital strategy and operational improvement activities across the Firm and the PPC Companies. Anish joined PPC in 2022 and brings over 20 years of experience in digital innovation, process optimization, and platform modernization. Prior to PPC, Anish served as the Director of Business Improvement at CME Group and previously held various senior operational roles across digital and technology companies such as Nielsen, Leo Burnett, and Motorola. Anish received his M.B.A. from The University of Chicago Booth School of Business, his M.S. from Michigan State University, and is a certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt.

Executive Assistant

Sarah Simao is an Executive Assistant for PPC. Sarah joined PPC in 2022. Prior to PPC, Sarah was a Project Manager at Edelman and an Executive Assistant and Project Coordinator at Canivello, a talent agency in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Sarah received her B.A. from Columbia College Chicago and a Postgraduate diploma in Business Administration from Fundação Getulio Vargas in Brazil.

Tax Director

Bradley Smith is a Tax Director for PPC and is responsible for tax planning and compliance matters. Bradley joined PPC in 2022. Prior to PPC, Bradley was a Senior Manager at KPMG. Bradley received his M.B.A. from The University of Chicago Booth School of Business, his M.S. from the University of Illinois Urbana Champaign, and his B.S. in Accounting from Syracuse University. Bradley is a licensed Certified Public Accountant (CPA) in Illinois.

Associate

Brennan Smith is an Associate for PPC. Brennan works with C.H. Guenther and NAI Group. Brennan joined PPC in 2024. Prior to PPC, Brennan was an investment banking Analyst and Associate at Bank of America in the Leveraged Finance Group. Brennan received his B.B.A. from the University of Notre Dame.

Administrative Assistant

Hannah Tannhauser is an Administrative Assistant for PPC. Hannah joined PPC in 2024. Prior to PPC, Hannah worked as a recruiter within the financial technology sector. Hannah received her B.S. from the University of Louisville.

Investment Partner - Manufactured Products

Chris Trick is an Investment Partner for PPC and co-leads the Firm’s Manufactured Products team. Chris works with Bardstown Bourbon Company, C.H. Guenther, Monogram Foods, NAI Group, PLZ, ProAmpac, and Sugar Foods. Chris joined PPC in 2014 as a Vice President. Prior to PPC, Chris was an Associate at KRG Capital Partners and previously was an Investment Banking Analyst at Baird. Chris also played professional hockey in the ECHL. Chris received his M.B.A. from The University of Chicago Booth School of Business and his B.B.A. from the University of Notre Dame where he was a four-time monogram winner as a member of the hockey team.

Partner, Chief Operating Officer
and General Counsel

Brad West, Partner, is Chief Operating Officer and General Counsel for PPC. Brad oversees the Firm’s internal operations and is responsible for administering PPC’s legal, risk management and regulatory compliance programs. Brad initially joined PPC (then PGPC) in 2014 as Vice President – Legal. Prior to PPC, Brad worked in the private equity, finance, and transactions practice of Vedder Price, P.C. and in the corporate and securities group at Mayer Brown LLP. Brad received his J.D. from the University of Minnesota Law School and his B.B.A. from the University of Wisconsin – Madison.

Vice President of Human Resources

Silvia Yim is a Vice President of Human Resources for PPC. Silvia oversees all human resources functions internally and helps drive and support talent efforts at PPC and across the family of companies, including talent acquisition, assessment, and driving strategic initiatives. Silvia joined PPC in 2018 as a Human Resources Manager. Prior to PPC, Silvia held several roles in the Talent Acquisition and Human Resources space. Silvia received her B.S. from Trinity International University.

Executive Assistant

Jessica Young is an Executive Assistant for PPC. Jessica joined PPC in 2025. Prior to PPC, Jessica was an Executive Assistant at Varsity Healthcare Partners, Boston Consulting Group, and United Airlines. Jessica received her B.A. from the University of Michigan.

Senior Leadership

President
and Head of Operations

David Gau is President and Head of Operations for PPC. David joined PPC in 2014 and previously served as Chief Operating Officer, an Operating Partner and Co-Head of the Manufactured Products sector team. David works with Aurorium, Bardstown Bourbon Company, C.H. Guenther & Son, HeartLand, Highline Warren, Monogram Foods, PathGroup, Plaskolite, PLZ, ProAmpac, and Technimark. David joined PPC after a 30-year career building and operating multi-national organizations. Prior to PPC, he served as CEO of Intersystems, a manufacturer of material handling equipment for agricultural and industrial applications. Previously, held leadership roles as EVP of Global Commercial Operations and Group President of Industrial Fluid Power for Gates Corp. and as President of Air System Components, a division of Tomkins. David received his B.S. from the University of Nebraska at Omaha.

Managing Partner
and Head of Investing

Michael Nelson is the Managing Partner and Head of Investing for PPC. Michael joined PPC in 2012 and previously served as an Investment Partner and Co-Head of the Manufactured Products sector team. Michael works with Aurorium, Energy Distribution Partners, Highline Warren, Kenco Logistics, NAI Group, Technimark, and Valicor. Prior to PPC, Michael was a Managing Director at Wind Point Partners, a private equity investment firm based in Chicago, where he led investments in specialty manufacturing and packaging and served on the boards of seven different portfolio companies. Prior to Wind Point, Michael co-founded and served as Vice President of Finance for Esurg Corporation, a private equity-backed distributor of medical and pharmaceutical supplies. Previously, Michael spent four years in investment banking with Vector Securities. Michael serves on the board of the Chicago Jesuit Academy, which provides a full-scholarship college prep educational opportunity for economically disadvantaged youth in Chicago. Michael received his M.B.A. from Harvard Business School and his B.B.A. from the University of Michigan.

Co-Founder, Chairman,
and Chief Executive Officer

Tony Pritzker is Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of PPC, where he has spent over twenty years as an active investor and board member in middle-market companies across the manufactured products and business services segments. Tony works with Bardstown Bourbon Company, C.H. Guenther & Son, Kenco Logistics, PLZ, and ProAmpac. Tony’s operating experience includes serving as Chairman of AmSafe Partners, a manufacturer of aircraft seating restraints; President of Baker Tanks, a national tank and pump equipment rental business; and a variety of leadership roles at Marmon Group, where he served as a Group Executive. Tony supports a variety of causes and campaigns and currently serves as a Director or Board Member of the following institutions: Anthony Pritzker Family Foundation, International Medical Corps, Pritzker Family Foundation, the UCLA Institute for Carbon Management, and the US Olympic and Paralympic Foundation. For his stewardship, Tony has received honors from UCLA Neurosurgery, Friends of Sheba Medical Center in Israel, Young Presidents’ Organization, and the American Jewish University’s Brandeis Bardin Institute. Tony received his M.B.A. from The University of Chicago Booth School of Business and his B.A. from Dartmouth College.

Partners

Operating Partner - Manufactured Products

Chris Brickman is an Operating Partner for PPC and co-leads the Firm’s Manufactured Products team. Chris works with Bardstown Bourbon Company, C.H. Guenther, Monogram Foods, and Sugar Foods. Chris joined PPC in 2023. Prior to PPC, Chris served as President and CEO of Sally Beauty Holdings. Previously, Chris held several senior positions at Kimberly-Clark Corporation, including President – International Consumer, President – Kimberly-Clark Professional, and Senior Vice President of Strategy. Prior to Kimberly-Clark, Chris was a Partner at McKinsey & Company after serving as President & CEO of Whitlock Packaging Corporation. Earlier in his career, he held positions at Guinness Brewing Worldwide and The NutraSweet Company after starting his career at Boston Consulting Group. Chris received his B.A. from Occidental College.

Investment Partner - Services

Anthony Cardona is an Investment Partner on the Services team for PPC. Anthony works with Highline Warren, Kenco Logistics, Lawley, and Valicor. Anthony initially joined PPC in 2014 as an Associate and re-joined in 2018 after business school. Prior to PPC, Anthony was an Investment Banking Analyst at Lincoln International. Anthony received his M.B.A. from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University and his B.S. from Washington and Lee University.

Operating Partner – Commercial

Carter Cast is an Operating Partner for PPC and works across the PPC Companies on commercial excellence activities that drive primary demand. Carter joined PPC in 2023 after having served as a Senior Advisor to the Firm for many years. Carter concurrently serves as the Michael S. and Mary Sue Shannon Clinical Professor of Entrepreneurship at Northwestern University's Kellogg School of Management. He is also a member of the board of directors for the global snacking company Kellanova (NYSE: K). Prior to his teaching career, Carter launched and served as CEO of Walmart.com and was part of the launch team for Blue Nile, Inc., an online seller of diamonds and fine jewelry. Earlier in his career, Carter spent over a decade at PepsiCo Inc. where he ran the corn chip and salsa categories for Frito Lay, Inc.  Carter received his M.B.A. from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University and his B.A. from Stanford University.

Investment Partner - Manufactured Products

Thomas Chadwick is an Investment Partner on the Manufactured Products team for PPC. Thomas works with Aurorium, Buckman, NAI Group, Plaskolite, and Technimark. Thomas joined PPC in 2017 as a Vice President. Prior to PPC, Thomas was an Associate at Madison Dearborn Capital Partners and an Investment Banking Analyst at Deutsche Bank. Thomas received his M.B.A. from Harvard Business School and his B.B.A. from the University of Wisconsin – Madison.

Partner
and Head of Global Strategic Partnerships

Rebecca Converse, Partner, is the Head of Global Strategic Partnerships for PPC. Rebecca focuses on developing relationships and communications for PPC’s investor partners as well as oversees PPC’s events, marketing, and communications team. Rebecca joined PPC in 2021. Prior to PPC, Rebecca founded and served as Managing Principal of Cycle Communications, a specialty consulting group focused on investor relations and communications development initiatives for private equity firms and investors. Previously, Rebecca began her career and spent 17 years with Wind Point Partners, where she was ultimately the Director of Investor Relations, Marketing, and Communications. Rebecca received her M.B.A. from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University and her B.A. from the University of Michigan.

President
and Head of Operations

David Gau is President and Head of Operations for PPC. David joined PPC in 2014 and previously served as Chief Operating Officer, an Operating Partner and Co-Head of the Manufactured Products sector team. David works with Aurorium, Bardstown Bourbon Company, C.H. Guenther & Son, HeartLand, Highline Warren, Monogram Foods, PathGroup, Plaskolite, PLZ, ProAmpac, and Technimark. David joined PPC after a 30-year career building and operating multi-national organizations. Prior to PPC, he served as CEO of Intersystems, a manufacturer of material handling equipment for agricultural and industrial applications. Previously, held leadership roles as EVP of Global Commercial Operations and Group President of Industrial Fluid Power for Gates Corp. and as President of Air System Components, a division of Tomkins. David received his B.S. from the University of Nebraska at Omaha.

Operating Partner – Manufactured Products

Dwight Gibson is an Operating Partner – Manufactured Products for PPC. Dwight works with Americhem, Aurorium, Buckman, NAI Group, and Plaskolite. Dwight joined PPC in 2024. Prior to PPC, Dwight served as President and Chief Executive Officer of BlueLinx Corporation, a publicly traded Building Materials Distribution company. Prior to BlueLinx, he served as Chief Commercial Officer for SPX Flow Corporation and previously held a variety of senior management roles at Trane Technologies (formerly known as Ingersoll Rand). Dwight began his career as a consultant with McKinsey & Company. He is also a Board member for Holcim, a publicly traded global producer of cement and aggregate products, and Interface Corporation, a publicly traded commercial flooring manufacturer. Dwight received his M.Sc. from the London School of Economics, his M.B.A from the Stanford Graduate School of Business, and his B.B.A. from Howard University.

Investment Partner - Services

Eric Kieras is an Investment Partner for PPC and co-leads the Firm’s Services team. Eric works with EDP, HeartLand, and Kenco Logistics. Eric joined PPC in 2020. Prior to PPC, Eric was a Managing Director at JZ Partners and previously an investment banker at P&M Corporate Finance. Eric received his B.B.A. from the University of Michigan.

Managing Partner
and Head of Investing

Michael Nelson is the Managing Partner and Head of Investing for PPC. Michael joined PPC in 2012 and previously served as an Investment Partner and Co-Head of the Manufactured Products sector team. Michael works with Aurorium, Energy Distribution Partners, Highline Warren, Kenco Logistics, NAI Group, Technimark, and Valicor. Prior to PPC, Michael was a Managing Director at Wind Point Partners, a private equity investment firm based in Chicago, where he led investments in specialty manufacturing and packaging and served on the boards of seven different portfolio companies. Prior to Wind Point, Michael co-founded and served as Vice President of Finance for Esurg Corporation, a private equity-backed distributor of medical and pharmaceutical supplies. Previously, Michael spent four years in investment banking with Vector Securities. Michael serves on the board of the Chicago Jesuit Academy, which provides a full-scholarship college prep educational opportunity for economically disadvantaged youth in Chicago. Michael received his M.B.A. from Harvard Business School and his B.B.A. from the University of Michigan.

Co-Founder, Chairman,
and Chief Executive Officer

Tony Pritzker is Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of PPC, where he has spent over twenty years as an active investor and board member in middle-market companies across the manufactured products and business services segments. Tony works with Bardstown Bourbon Company, C.H. Guenther & Son, Kenco Logistics, PLZ, and ProAmpac. Tony’s operating experience includes serving as Chairman of AmSafe Partners, a manufacturer of aircraft seating restraints; President of Baker Tanks, a national tank and pump equipment rental business; and a variety of leadership roles at Marmon Group, where he served as a Group Executive. Tony supports a variety of causes and campaigns and currently serves as a Director or Board Member of the following institutions: Anthony Pritzker Family Foundation, International Medical Corps, Pritzker Family Foundation, the UCLA Institute for Carbon Management, and the US Olympic and Paralympic Foundation. For his stewardship, Tony has received honors from UCLA Neurosurgery, Friends of Sheba Medical Center in Israel, Young Presidents’ Organization, and the American Jewish University’s Brandeis Bardin Institute. Tony received his M.B.A. from The University of Chicago Booth School of Business and his B.A. from Dartmouth College.

Investment Partner - Manufactured Products

Chris Trick is an Investment Partner for PPC and co-leads the Firm’s Manufactured Products team. Chris works with Bardstown Bourbon Company, C.H. Guenther, Monogram Foods, NAI Group, PLZ, ProAmpac, and Sugar Foods. Chris joined PPC in 2014 as a Vice President. Prior to PPC, Chris was an Associate at KRG Capital Partners and previously was an Investment Banking Analyst at Baird. Chris also played professional hockey in the ECHL. Chris received his M.B.A. from The University of Chicago Booth School of Business and his B.B.A. from the University of Notre Dame where he was a four-time monogram winner as a member of the hockey team.

Partner, Chief Operating Officer
and General Counsel

Brad West, Partner, is Chief Operating Officer and General Counsel for PPC. Brad oversees the Firm’s internal operations and is responsible for administering PPC’s legal, risk management and regulatory compliance programs. Brad initially joined PPC (then PGPC) in 2014 as Vice President – Legal. Prior to PPC, Brad worked in the private equity, finance, and transactions practice of Vedder Price, P.C. and in the corporate and securities group at Mayer Brown LLP. Brad received his J.D. from the University of Minnesota Law School and his B.B.A. from the University of Wisconsin – Madison.

Investments

Vice President – Services

Alyson Aurand is a Vice President on the Services team for PPC. Alyson works with Valicor and EDP. Alyson joined PPC in 2024. Prior to PPC, Alyson was a Senior Associate at Wind Point Partners and a Business Analyst at McKinsey & Company. Alyson received her M.S. from the University of Texas at Austin and her B.S. from Clemson University.

Principal – Services

Ben Barry is a Principal on the Services team for PPC. Ben works with Kenco Logistics, Lawley, and Valicor. Ben initially joined PPC in 2017 as an Associate and rejoined in 2021 after serving as Chief of Staff at Valicor, a PPC Company, for one year. Prior to PPC, Ben was an Associate at Summit Partners and an Investment Banking Analyst at Baird. Ben received his B.B.A. from Emory University.

Associate

Alyssa Brand is an Associate for PPC. Alyssa joined PPC in 2025. Alyssa works with PLZ and Sugar Foods. Prior to PPC, Alyssa was an Associate at PSG and an investment banking Analyst at Baird. Alyssa received her B.S. from Drake University, where she was a four-time letter winner and Captain of the soccer team.

Vice President - Manufactured Products

Spenser Brown is a Vice President on the Manufactured Products team for PPC. Spenser works with Buckman, NAI Group, and Plaskolite. Spenser joined PPC in 2022. Prior to PPC, Spenser was an Associate at Madison Dearborn Capital Partners and previously was an investment banking Associate, Senior Analyst, and Analyst at Citi. Spenser received his M.B.A. from the Stanford Graduate School of Business and a dual B.S. from Milwaukee School of Engineering, where he graduated as valedictorian and served as an Assistant Coach for the NCAA DIII men's ice hockey team. Spenser is a Chartered Financial Analyst® (CFA®).

Investment Partner - Services

Anthony Cardona is an Investment Partner on the Services team for PPC. Anthony works with Highline Warren, Kenco Logistics, Lawley, and Valicor. Anthony initially joined PPC in 2014 as an Associate and re-joined in 2018 after business school. Prior to PPC, Anthony was an Investment Banking Analyst at Lincoln International. Anthony received his M.B.A. from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University and his B.S. from Washington and Lee University.

Associate

Demetre Carnot is an Associate for PPC. Demetre works with PathGroup and Plaskolite. Demetre joined PPC in 2024. Prior to PPC, Demetre was an investment banking Analyst in the Industrial Growth Products group at William Blair. Demetre received his B.S. from Miami University.

Investment Partner - Manufactured Products

Thomas Chadwick is an Investment Partner on the Manufactured Products team for PPC. Thomas works with Aurorium, Buckman, NAI Group, Plaskolite, and Technimark. Thomas joined PPC in 2017 as a Vice President. Prior to PPC, Thomas was an Associate at Madison Dearborn Capital Partners and an Investment Banking Analyst at Deutsche Bank. Thomas received his M.B.A. from Harvard Business School and his B.B.A. from the University of Wisconsin – Madison.

Principal - Manufactured Products

Kaitlyn Desai is a Principal on the Manufactured Products team for PPC. Kaitlyn works with Americhem, PLZ, and ProAmpac. Kaitlyn joined PPC in 2019 as a Vice President after serving as an intern during business school. Prior to PPC, Kaitlyn was an Associate Director at SSA & Company, a Finance Coordinator at Livestream, and an Analyst at Deutsche Bank. Kaitlyn received her M.B.A. from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business and her B.A. from Claremont McKenna College, where she was a Robert Day Scholar and four-time letter winner as a member of the lacrosse team.

Vice President – Manufactured Products

Anna Edgcomb is a Vice President on the Manufactured Products team for PPC. Anna works with Americhem, ProAmpac, and Sugar Foods. Anna initially joined PPC in 2019 as an Associate and re-joined the Firm in 2024 after business school. Prior to PPC, Anna was an Investment Banking Analyst at Bank of America Merrill Lynch. Anna received her M.B.A. from The University of Chicago Booth School of Business and received her B.B.A. from Texas Christian University.

Vice President – Services

Andrew Farwell is a Vice President on the Services team for PPC. Andrew works with HeartLand and Highline Warren. Andrew initially joined PPC in 2020 as an Associate and re-joined in 2025 after business school. Prior to PPC, Andrew was an Investment Banking Analyst at Baird. Andrew received his M.B.A. from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business and his B.B.A. from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

Senior Associate

Erica Friedman (Kosches) is a Senior Associate for PPC. Erica works with Highline Warren. Erica joined PPC in 2023 as an Associate. Prior to PPC, Erica was an investment banking Associate at William Blair and a consultant in Deloitte’s M&A group. Erica received her B.A. from Northwestern University.

Senior Associate

Parker Hewitt is a Senior Associate for PPC. Parker works with Kenco Logistics. Parker joined PPC in 2023 as an Associate. Prior to PPC, Parker was an Investment Banking Analyst at Moelis & Company. Parker received his B.S. from Indiana University.

Vice President - Manufactured Products

Patrick Hodan is a Vice President on the Manufactured Products team for PPC. Patrick works with Aurorium, C.H. Guenther, and PLZ. Patrick initially joined PPC in 2020 as an Associate and re-joined in 2025 after business school. Prior to PPC, Patrick was an investment banking associate in the Services & Industrials Group at William Blair in Chicago. Patrick received his M.B.A. from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business and his B.B.A. in finance from the University of Notre Dame where he was a four-time monogram winner as a member of the soccer team.

Principal - Manufactured Products

Phil Iler is a Principal on the Manufactured Products team for PPC. Phil works with Bardstown Bourbon Company, C.H. Guenther, Monogram Foods, and Sugar Foods. Phil initially joined PPC in 2016 as an Associate and re-joined the Firm in 2020 after business school. Prior to PPC, Phil was an Investment Banking Analyst at SunTrust Robinson Humphrey. Phil received his M.B.A. from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business and his B.S. in Finance from Wake Forest University.

Associate

Michael Janis is an Associate for PPC. Michael joined PPC in 2025. Michael works with Aurorium and Lawley Insurance. Prior to PPC, Michael was an investment banking Analyst at Goldman Sachs. Michael received his B.A. from The University of Chicago, where he was a four-year member of the football team.

Associate

Kailash Jayaraman is an Associate for PPC. Kailash joined PPC in 2025. Kailash works with Buckman and Technimark. Prior to PPC, Kailash was an investment banking Analyst at Greenhill & Co. Kailash received his B.S.B.A. from Washington University.

Investment Partner - Services

Eric Kieras is an Investment Partner for PPC and co-leads the Firm’s Services team. Eric works with EDP, HeartLand, and Kenco Logistics. Eric joined PPC in 2020. Prior to PPC, Eric was a Managing Director at JZ Partners and previously an investment banker at P&M Corporate Finance. Eric received his B.B.A. from the University of Michigan.

Associate

Alli Kothari is an Associate for PPC. Alli works with EDP and Monogram Foods. Alli joined PPC in 2024. Prior to PPC, Alli was a Strategy & Business Operations Associate at Shiftsmart and an Investment Banking Analyst at Raymond James. Alli received her B.S. from the University of Michigan, where she was a four-time letter winner as a member of the lacrosse team.

Senior Associate

Emma Lee is a Senior Associate for PPC. Emma works with ProAmpac. Emma joined PPC in 2023 as an Associate. Prior to PPC, Emma was an Investment Banking Analyst at Goldman Sachs. Emma received her M.S. from Clemson University.

Principal – Services

Mike Manno is a Principal on the Services team for PPC. Mike works with EDP, HeartLand, Highline Warren, and PathGroup. Mike joined PPC in 2021. Prior to PPC, Mike was Vice President at Flexpoint Ford, an Associate at Genstar Capital, and an Investment Banking Analyst at Baird. Mike received his M.B.A. from Harvard Business School and his B.S. from the University of Notre Dame.

Managing Partner
and Head of Investing

Michael Nelson is the Managing Partner and Head of Investing for PPC. Michael joined PPC in 2012 and previously served as an Investment Partner and Co-Head of the Manufactured Products sector team. Michael works with Aurorium, Energy Distribution Partners, Highline Warren, Kenco Logistics, NAI Group, Technimark, and Valicor. Prior to PPC, Michael was a Managing Director at Wind Point Partners, a private equity investment firm based in Chicago, where he led investments in specialty manufacturing and packaging and served on the boards of seven different portfolio companies. Prior to Wind Point, Michael co-founded and served as Vice President of Finance for Esurg Corporation, a private equity-backed distributor of medical and pharmaceutical supplies. Previously, Michael spent four years in investment banking with Vector Securities. Michael serves on the board of the Chicago Jesuit Academy, which provides a full-scholarship college prep educational opportunity for economically disadvantaged youth in Chicago. Michael received his M.B.A. from Harvard Business School and his B.B.A. from the University of Michigan.

Associate

Mason Schilling is an Associate for PPC. Mason works with Valicor. Mason joined PPC in 2024. Prior to PPC, Mason was an investment banking Analyst at Goldman Sachs. Mason received his B.S. from Duke University.

Associate

Dennis Schmandt is an Associate for PPC. Dennis joined PPC in 2025. Dennis works with Bardstown Bourbon Company and HeartLand. Prior to PPC, Dennis was an investment banking Analyst at Moelis & Company. Dennis received his B.S. from the University of Illinois.

Associate

Brennan Smith is an Associate for PPC. Brennan works with C.H. Guenther and NAI Group. Brennan joined PPC in 2024. Prior to PPC, Brennan was an investment banking Analyst and Associate at Bank of America in the Leveraged Finance Group. Brennan received his B.B.A. from the University of Notre Dame.

Investment Partner - Manufactured Products

Chris Trick is an Investment Partner for PPC and co-leads the Firm’s Manufactured Products team. Chris works with Bardstown Bourbon Company, C.H. Guenther, Monogram Foods, NAI Group, PLZ, ProAmpac, and Sugar Foods. Chris joined PPC in 2014 as a Vice President. Prior to PPC, Chris was an Associate at KRG Capital Partners and previously was an Investment Banking Analyst at Baird. Chris also played professional hockey in the ECHL. Chris received his M.B.A. from The University of Chicago Booth School of Business and his B.B.A. from the University of Notre Dame where he was a four-time monogram winner as a member of the hockey team.

Operations

Operating Partner - Manufactured Products

Chris Brickman is an Operating Partner for PPC and co-leads the Firm’s Manufactured Products team. Chris works with Bardstown Bourbon Company, C.H. Guenther, Monogram Foods, and Sugar Foods. Chris joined PPC in 2023. Prior to PPC, Chris served as President and CEO of Sally Beauty Holdings. Previously, Chris held several senior positions at Kimberly-Clark Corporation, including President – International Consumer, President – Kimberly-Clark Professional, and Senior Vice President of Strategy. Prior to Kimberly-Clark, Chris was a Partner at McKinsey & Company after serving as President & CEO of Whitlock Packaging Corporation. Earlier in his career, he held positions at Guinness Brewing Worldwide and The NutraSweet Company after starting his career at Boston Consulting Group. Chris received his B.A. from Occidental College.

Head of Technology

Jeff Carlson is Head of Technology for PPC and oversees PPC’s IT team and provides strategic and tactical guidance as well as develops cross-collaboration across the IT professionals at the PPC Companies. Jeff joined PPC in 2020 after previously having served as Director of Information Technology at Pritzker Group since 2014. Prior to PPC/Pritzker Group, Jeff was a Vice President of Information Technology at SunTrust Robinson Humphrey, a Vice President at Bank of America, and a Senior Developer at Vista Software Solutions (now JDA Software). Jeff received his M.S. and B.S. from Northern Illinois University.

Operating Partner – Commercial

Carter Cast is an Operating Partner for PPC and works across the PPC Companies on commercial excellence activities that drive primary demand. Carter joined PPC in 2023 after having served as a Senior Advisor to the Firm for many years. Carter concurrently serves as the Michael S. and Mary Sue Shannon Clinical Professor of Entrepreneurship at Northwestern University's Kellogg School of Management. He is also a member of the board of directors for the global snacking company Kellanova (NYSE: K). Prior to his teaching career, Carter launched and served as CEO of Walmart.com and was part of the launch team for Blue Nile, Inc., an online seller of diamonds and fine jewelry. Earlier in his career, Carter spent over a decade at PepsiCo Inc. where he ran the corn chip and salsa categories for Frito Lay, Inc.  Carter received his M.B.A. from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University and his B.A. from Stanford University.

Vice President – Operations Management

Alex Dexeus is a Vice President of Operations Management for PPC. Alex works across the Family of Companies on acquisition integrations, project management, and operational improvement initiatives. Prior to PPC, Alex attended business school and was an intern with Plaskolite as Finance Project Manager. Prior to business school, Alex worked at ExxonMobil where he served as a Project Manager for major chemical plant expansion projects and as a Product Manager for ExxonMobil’s specialty chemicals business. Alex received his M.B.A. from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business, his B.S. in Engineering from Purdue University, and is an actively licensed Professional Engineer.

Vice President - Financial Performance

Amanda Essay is Vice President – Financial Performance for PPC. Amanda works with PPC and across the PPC Companies on accounting, finance, and reporting matters. Amanda joined PPC in 2018 as Finance Manager. Prior to PPC, Amanda was a Transaction Services Senior Associate and Associate at PwC’s capital markets and accounting advisory group. Amanda received her M.S. and her B.A. from Vanderbilt University, where she was a four-time monogram winner as a member of the soccer team. Amanda is a licensed Certified Public Accountant (CPA) in Illinois.

President
and Head of Operations

David Gau is President and Head of Operations for PPC. David joined PPC in 2014 and previously served as Chief Operating Officer, an Operating Partner and Co-Head of the Manufactured Products sector team. David works with Aurorium, Bardstown Bourbon Company, C.H. Guenther & Son, HeartLand, Highline Warren, Monogram Foods, PathGroup, Plaskolite, PLZ, ProAmpac, and Technimark. David joined PPC after a 30-year career building and operating multi-national organizations. Prior to PPC, he served as CEO of Intersystems, a manufacturer of material handling equipment for agricultural and industrial applications. Previously, held leadership roles as EVP of Global Commercial Operations and Group President of Industrial Fluid Power for Gates Corp. and as President of Air System Components, a division of Tomkins. David received his B.S. from the University of Nebraska at Omaha.

Operating Partner – Manufactured Products

Dwight Gibson is an Operating Partner – Manufactured Products for PPC. Dwight works with Americhem, Aurorium, Buckman, NAI Group, and Plaskolite. Dwight joined PPC in 2024. Prior to PPC, Dwight served as President and Chief Executive Officer of BlueLinx Corporation, a publicly traded Building Materials Distribution company. Prior to BlueLinx, he served as Chief Commercial Officer for SPX Flow Corporation and previously held a variety of senior management roles at Trane Technologies (formerly known as Ingersoll Rand). Dwight began his career as a consultant with McKinsey & Company. He is also a Board member for Holcim, a publicly traded global producer of cement and aggregate products, and Interface Corporation, a publicly traded commercial flooring manufacturer. Dwight received his M.Sc. from the London School of Economics, his M.B.A from the Stanford Graduate School of Business, and his B.B.A. from Howard University.

Chief Financial Officer – Operations Group

David Hirsch is Chief Financial Officer – Operations Group for PPC. David focuses on accounting, finance, and reporting across the PPC Companies. David initially joined PPC (then PGPC) in 2013 as Vice President – Finance. Prior to PPC, David was a Transaction Services Manager at Crowe and a Senior Auditor at Deloitte. David received his M.A.S. and B.S. from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. David is a Certified Public Accountant (inactive).

Vice President – Operations
and Strategic Finance

Matthew Kasper is Vice President – Operations & Strategic Finance for PPC. Matthew works with the PPC Companies to support the execution of strategic, financial, and operational value creation initiatives. Matthew joined PPC in 2020 as an Associate. Prior to PPC, Matthew was an investment banking Analyst at RBC Capital Markets. Matthew received his B.S. from Indiana University.

Technology Project Manager

Keely Krugler is a Technology Project Manager for PPC and focuses on assisting with technology initiatives at the Firm as well as the PPC Companies. Keely joined PPC in 2022. Prior to PPC, Keely held various technology consulting roles at Accenture and Baker Tilly. Keely received her B.B.A. from the University of Wisconsin – Madison.

Head of Digital Transformation

Anish Sharan is Head of Digital Transformation for PPC. Anish focuses on spearheading digital strategy and operational improvement activities across the Firm and the PPC Companies. Anish joined PPC in 2022 and brings over 20 years of experience in digital innovation, process optimization, and platform modernization. Prior to PPC, Anish served as the Director of Business Improvement at CME Group and previously held various senior operational roles across digital and technology companies such as Nielsen, Leo Burnett, and Motorola. Anish received his M.B.A. from The University of Chicago Booth School of Business, his M.S. from Michigan State University, and is a certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt.

Firm Operations

Executive Assistant

Haley Bass is an Executive Assistant for PPC. Haley joined PPC in 2022. Prior to PPC, Haley was an Executive Assistant at the Medical College of Wisconsin. Haley received her B.A. from St. Norbert College.

Senior Finance Associate

Ellie Baumgartner is a Senior Finance Associate for PPC. Ellie joined PPC in 2024. Prior to PPC, Ellie was a Senior Auditor for Deloitte - Chicago, primarily serving Private Equity and Real Estate clients. Ellie received her M.Acc. and B.S. from the University of Missouri.

Executive Assistant

April Bennett is an Executive Assistant for PPC. April joined PPC in 2025. Prior to PPC, April was an Executive Assistant at Invenergy and Thornton Tomasetti. April received her B.A. from Northern Illinois University and is a LEED Green Associate, a credential from the U.S. Green Building Council that showcases her expertise in sustainable building practices.

Assistant General Counsel, Chief Compliance
and ESG Officer

Chris Brannan serves as the Assistant General Counsel, Chief Compliance Officer, and the Environmental, Social & Governance (ESG) Officer for PPC. As Assistant General Counsel, Chris works with PPC and the PPC Companies on regulatory compliance, transaction execution, and various other legal matters. As ESG Officer, Chris manages PPC’s communications and tracking programs related to ESG and works with the Firm and the PPC Companies to further ESG efforts and initiatives. Chris joined PPC in 2017 as Assistant General Counsel. Prior to PPC, Chris was an attorney in the M&A practices at Winston & Strawn LLP and O’Melveny & Myers LLP.  Prior to law school, Chris was a Tax/Assurance Associate at PwC, where he received his CPA license (inactive). Chris received his J.D. from the University of Michigan Law School and his B.A. from Bucknell University where he was a member of the baseball team.

Head of Technology

Jeff Carlson is Head of Technology for PPC and oversees PPC’s IT team and provides strategic and tactical guidance as well as develops cross-collaboration across the IT professionals at the PPC Companies. Jeff joined PPC in 2020 after previously having served as Director of Information Technology at Pritzker Group since 2014. Prior to PPC/Pritzker Group, Jeff was a Vice President of Information Technology at SunTrust Robinson Humphrey, a Vice President at Bank of America, and a Senior Developer at Vista Software Solutions (now JDA Software). Jeff received his M.S. and B.S. from Northern Illinois University.

Human Resources Generalist

Esther Choi is a Human Resources Generalist for PPC and supports all internal HR functions at PPC. Esther joined PPC in 2022 as Human Resources Coordinator. Prior to PPC, Esther was a Human Resources Coordinator and Office Manager at Envoy Global, a Legal Assistant at Trivedi & Khan, P.C., and a Customer Service Specialist at the Georgia Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division. Esther received her B.B.A. from Georgia State University.

Partner
and Head of Global Strategic Partnerships

Rebecca Converse, Partner, is the Head of Global Strategic Partnerships for PPC. Rebecca focuses on developing relationships and communications for PPC’s investor partners as well as oversees PPC’s events, marketing, and communications team. Rebecca joined PPC in 2021. Prior to PPC, Rebecca founded and served as Managing Principal of Cycle Communications, a specialty consulting group focused on investor relations and communications development initiatives for private equity firms and investors. Previously, Rebecca began her career and spent 17 years with Wind Point Partners, where she was ultimately the Director of Investor Relations, Marketing, and Communications. Rebecca received her M.B.A. from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University and her B.A. from the University of Michigan.

Receptionist

Keirsten Culler is a Receptionist at PPC. Keirsten joined PPC in 2025. Prior to PPC, Keirsten was an Administrative Intern at CBIZ. Keirsten received her B.B.A. from Cleveland State University.

Finance Manager

Bradley Davis is the Finance Manager for PPC and supports financial reporting, fund management functions, and accounts payable process. Bradley joined PPC in 2019 as a Senior Accountant. Prior to PPC, Bradley was a Senior Associate at RSM US LLP where he focused on private equity tax compliance. Bradley received his dual B.S. from Indiana University. Bradley is a licensed Certified Public Accountant (CPA) in Illinois.

Senior Associate - Partner Relations
and Marketing

Brooke DelPiccolo is a Senior Associate on the Partner Relations and Marketing team for PPC and focuses on materials development, information requests, and portal management for the Firm’s investor partners. Brooke joined PPC in 2022. Prior to PPC, Brooke was a Senior Associate at Dubin Clark & Company, Inc., an Analyst at Deutsche Bank, and held an investor relations support role at Audax Group. Brooke received her B.A. and B.B.A. from the University of Wisconsin – Green Bay.

Controller

James Dziubla is the Fund Controller for PPC. James joined PPC in 2024. Prior to PPC, James was a Director of Fund Administration at E78 Partners where he oversaw accounting, financial reporting, and investor relations services for private equity clients. James began his career as a financial services auditor at RSM and PwC. James received his B.S. from the University of Illinois at Chicago.

Paralegal

Jen Klein is a Paralegal for PPC. Jen supports an array of legal aspects of PPC and PPC Company operations, including regulatory compliance, transaction execution, and other governance matters. Jen joined PPC in 2022. Prior to PPC, Jen held several roles operational support roles at Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP, Jenner & Block LLP, Aon, and Bartlit Beck LLP. Jen completed the Paralegal Studies program at Webster University and received her B.S. from the University of Missouri.

Coordinator, Strategic Partnerships

Arielle (Ari) Kohn is a Coordinator on the Strategic Partnerships team for PPC. Ari joined PPC in 2025. Prior to PPC, Ari worked as a Client Services Manager at The Kaleidoscope Group, a human capital consulting firm. Ari received her B.A. from the University of Michigan.

IT Support Specialist

Connor Marks is an IT Support Specialist for PPC and focuses on supporting day-to-day technology and IT needs. Connor joined PPC in 2022. Prior to PPC, Connor provided executive IT support at Ferrara Candy Company. Connor received his B.A. from the University of Iowa.

Executive Assistant

Crystal Massa is an Executive Assistant for PPC. Crystal joined PPC in 2024. Prior to PPC, Crystal supported executives in real estate development, investment banking, and entertainment. Crystal received her B.A. from Northeastern Illinois University.

Legal & Compliance Associate

Lana Passarelli is a Legal & Compliance Associate for PPC. Lana joined PPC in 2024 and assists with legal and regulatory compliance matters. Prior to PPC, Lana held positions in legal and operational capacities at GEM Realty Capital, Sterling Bay, and Green Courte Partners. Lana received a B.S. from Roosevelt University and a Corporate Certificate in Paralegal Studies from Loyola University Chicago.

Associate, Partner Relations
and Marketing

Casey Perz is an Associate on the Partner Relations and Marketing team for PPC and focuses on developing information tracking systems, firm-wide marketing materials, PR initiatives, and other communications. Casey joined PPC in 2023. Prior to PPC, Casey was a Marketing Analyst at GCM Grosvenor. Casey received her B.A. from Indiana University.

Chief Financial Officer

Andrew Petri is the Chief Financial Officer for PPC.  Andrew joined PPC in 2025 and leads the firm’s efforts in accounting, financial reporting, tax, fund operations and administration.  Prior to PPC, Andrew was the Chief Financial Officer and Chief Compliance Officer of Pfingsten Partners, a lower middle market private equity firm in Chicago, and an auditor at Ernst & Young.  Andrew also serves on the board of the Midwest Chapter of the Private Equity CFO Association.  Andrew received his B.B.A. and a MACC from University of Wisconsin and is a registered Certified Public Accountant (CPA).   

Event Manager

Kayley Pitman is an Events Manager for PPC. Kayley joined PPC in 2024. Prior to PPC, Kayley was a Meeting and Event Specialist at Tempus Labs, Inc. Previously, she was an Events Coordinator at SmithBucklin. Kayley received her B.S. from the University of Colorado at Boulder.

Executive Assistant

Rachel Roberts is an Executive Assistant for PPC. Rachel joined PPC in 2023. Prior to PPC, Rachel worked with several high-level executives in entertainment, real estate, and consumer products. Rachel received her B.A. from the University of Wisconsin – Madison.

Accounts Payable Clerk

Miguel Roman is the Accounts Payable Clerk for PPC and oversees invoicing, cash reconciliation, and the billing database. Miguel joined PPC in 2022. Prior to PPC, Miguel was an Accounts Payable Specialist at USG Corporation. Miguel received his B.S. from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.

Senior Executive Assistant

Judy Schroffel is a Senior Executive Assistant for PPC. Judy joined PPC / PGPC in 2001. Prior to PPC / PGPC, Judy worked as an Executive Assistant at JMB. Judy received her B.A. from Washington University.

Executive Assistant

Sarah Simao is an Executive Assistant for PPC. Sarah joined PPC in 2022. Prior to PPC, Sarah was a Project Manager at Edelman and an Executive Assistant and Project Coordinator at Canivello, a talent agency in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Sarah received her B.A. from Columbia College Chicago and a Postgraduate diploma in Business Administration from Fundação Getulio Vargas in Brazil.

Tax Director

Bradley Smith is a Tax Director for PPC and is responsible for tax planning and compliance matters. Bradley joined PPC in 2022. Prior to PPC, Bradley was a Senior Manager at KPMG. Bradley received his M.B.A. from The University of Chicago Booth School of Business, his M.S. from the University of Illinois Urbana Champaign, and his B.S. in Accounting from Syracuse University. Bradley is a licensed Certified Public Accountant (CPA) in Illinois.

Administrative Assistant

Hannah Tannhauser is an Administrative Assistant for PPC. Hannah joined PPC in 2024. Prior to PPC, Hannah worked as a recruiter within the financial technology sector. Hannah received her B.S. from the University of Louisville.

Partner, Chief Operating Officer
and General Counsel

Brad West, Partner, is Chief Operating Officer and General Counsel for PPC. Brad oversees the Firm’s internal operations and is responsible for administering PPC’s legal, risk management and regulatory compliance programs. Brad initially joined PPC (then PGPC) in 2014 as Vice President – Legal. Prior to PPC, Brad worked in the private equity, finance, and transactions practice of Vedder Price, P.C. and in the corporate and securities group at Mayer Brown LLP. Brad received his J.D. from the University of Minnesota Law School and his B.B.A. from the University of Wisconsin – Madison.

Vice President of Human Resources

Silvia Yim is a Vice President of Human Resources for PPC. Silvia oversees all human resources functions internally and helps drive and support talent efforts at PPC and across the family of companies, including talent acquisition, assessment, and driving strategic initiatives. Silvia joined PPC in 2018 as a Human Resources Manager. Prior to PPC, Silvia held several roles in the Talent Acquisition and Human Resources space. Silvia received her B.S. from Trinity International University.

Executive Assistant

Jessica Young is an Executive Assistant for PPC. Jessica joined PPC in 2025. Prior to PPC, Jessica was an Executive Assistant at Varsity Healthcare Partners, Boston Consulting Group, and United Airlines. Jessica received her B.A. from the University of Michigan.

PPC Advisory Board

Chaired by Tony Pritzker, the Pritzker Advisory Board (PAB) is comprised of distinguished, senior executives from leading companies across our target investment sectors. The PAB provides strategic guidance to the firm, enhances our brand and awareness, and works with us and our group of companies to identify and access new opportunities and other areas of mutual interest.



Ruby Chandy is a member of the PPC Advisory Board. Ruby was formerly President of the Industrial Division of Pall Corporation. Earlier in her career, Ruby held various leadership roles at Dow Chemical, Thermo Fisher Scientific, Boston Scientific, and Millipore. Ruby currently serves on boards related to Ametek, DuPont, Flowserve Corporations, and MIT Sloan School. Ruby is a Mentor-in-Residence for University of Pennsylvania PCI Ventures. She was previously on boards related to Idex Corporation, Infiltrator Water Technologies, Gryphon Investors, and Unicef New England. Ruby received a BS in Materials Science and Engineering from MIT, a MS in Materials Science and Engineering from Northwestern University, and a SM in Business from the MIT Sloan School.

Michael Lamach is a member of the PPC Advisory Board. Mike formerly served as Executive Chair and CEO at Trane Technologies. Trane Technologies launched in 2020 upon the completion of a strategic transaction that created two companies – Trane Technologies and Ingersoll Rand. He also held the positions of President and COO. Earlier in his career, Mike held various leadership roles at Ingersoll Rand and Johnson Controls, including group Vice President and Managing Director for the European, Asian, South African, and South American businesses of Johnson Controls’ Automotive Group. Mike currently serves on boards related to PPG Industries and Nucor Steel. He is the Chair of the Charlotte Executive Leadership Council, co-Chairs the Charlotte Mayor’s Racial Equity Initiative, and serves as Trustee for Johnson C. Smith University. Mike was previously the Chair of the National Association of Manufacturers. Mike received a BS in Engineering from Michigan State University and an MBA from Duke University.

Stephen Newlin is a member of PPC Advisory Board. Steve formerly served as Chairman and CEO of Univar Solutions. Earlier in his career, Steve held various leadership roles at PolyOne Corporation, Ecolab Incorporated, and Nalco Chemical Company. Steve currently serves on boards related to Univar Solutions and Hexion. He is the Chairman of the Oshkosh Corporation. Steve also served as a commissioned officer in the U.S. Public Health Service. Steve received a BS in Civil and Environmental Engineering and an honorary Doctorate of Public Service from the South Dakota School of Mines & Technology. He completed the Tuck Executive Program at Dartmouth College and Harvard Business School's Advanced Management Program.

Doug Oberhelman is a member of the PPC Advisory Board. Doug formerly served as Chairman of the Board of Directors and CEO of Caterpillar Inc. He also held the positions of Vice President and CFO. Earlier in his career, Doug held multiple leadership roles at Caterpillar Inc and lived in various cities across North America, South America, and Asia during his tenure. Doug currently serves on boards related to Exxon Mobil Corporation, Peter Kiewit Sons’, Inc., and Bombardier Inc. He also serves as Vice President of the Wetlands America Trust, a Director on boards related to Max McGraw Wildlife Foundation and Intersect Illinois, and Chairman of the Board of Trustees for the Easter Seals Foundation of Central Illinois. Doug was previously the Chair of the Business Roundtable and the National Association of Manufacturers and also served on the boards of Eli Lilly and Company and Ameren Corporation. Doug received a BS in Business Administration from the University of Illinois.

Manny Perez de la Mesa is a member of the PPC Advisory Board. Manny was formerly CEO of Pool Corp. and now remains involved as Vice Chairman. Over the course of his 20-year management tenure, Pool Corp became a worldwide supplier of swimming pool equipment, parts, and supplies. He also held the positions of President and COO. Earlier in his career, Manny held various leadership roles IBM, Fresh Del Monte Produce, and Watsco. Manny currently serves on boards related to Pool Corp., Advanced Drainage Systems, Reece USA, US LBM, ORS Medco, and Imperial Dade. He was previously Chairman of the Board of the National Association of Wholesaler-Distributors and on the Board of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Manny received a BS in Business Administration from Florida International University and an MBA from St. John’s University.

David Steiner is a member of the PPC Advisory Board. He was formerly CEO and President of Waste Management. He also held the positions of CFO, General Counsel and Corporate Secretary, and Deputy General Counsel. Earlier in his career, David practiced law at Phelps Dunbar, Gibson, Dunn and Crutcher and Jones Walker. David currently serves on boards related to FedEx and Vulcan Materials. He also serves on a number of non-profit and educational boards, including the EJ Ourso School of Business at LSU. David received a BS in Accounting from Louisiana State University and a JD from the UCLA School of Law.

Dale Tremblay is a member of the PPC Advisory Board. Dale was formerly the CEO of C.H. Guenther & Son (CHG) and now remains involved as Executive Chairman. Earlier in his career, Dale held various leadership roles at The Quaker Oats Co., Sara Lee Corp., and R.R. Donnelley and Sons Inc. Dale currently serves on boards related to Texas Capital Bank, Monogram Foods, Nature Sweet Tomatoes Ltd., Haven for Hope, and Opera San Antonio. He was previously on boards related to Clear Channel Outdoor Inc., Keystone School, Texas Can! Academy, the San Antonio Symphony, Michigan State University, and the Dallas Federal Reserve. Dale received a BA in Financial Management from Michigan State University.

Executive Advisors

Lee Applbaum is a PPC Executive Advisor to Bardstown Bourbon Company. Lee also currently serves as CMO for Wheels Up. Lee was formerly CMO for Patrón Spirits at Bacardi Global Brands. He was instrumental in Patron Spirits’ growth into a global, ultra-premium tequila and assisted in its $5.1B sale to Bacardi Limited in 2018. Earlier in his career, Lee held various leadership roles at Surterra Wellness, Target Australia, RadioShack, Schottenstein Stores Corporation, David’s Bridal, Footstar Athletic, and Schlotzsky's. Lee received a BS in Marketing from The University of Texas at Austin and an MBA in Marketing from the Isenberg School of Management at UMass Amherst.

Barry Beyer is a PPC Executive Advisor and Founder of Pathfinder Consulting LLC. Barry was formerly a site manager at Koyo Bearings USA. In this role, he drove improvement in labor performance, machine uptime, product quality, and employee satisfaction. In Koyo’s fast paced environment, he also encouraged his team to “work up a level,” which helped to permanently solve problems and drive continuous improvement on the shop floor. Barry studied and taught FMDS (Floor Management Development System) to his team at Koyo, which was utilized as the central system for daily management, allowing his plant to prosper in the razor-thin margins of a high-volume automotive parts supplier. Earlier in his career, Barry held various leadership roles at Intersystems and Modine Manufacturing Company. Barry received a BS in Engineering from Purdue University.

Paul Carbone is Co-Founder and Vice Chairman of PPC. In 2012, Paul joined PPC’s predecessor company and later PPC as Managing Partner and led the Firm’s growth and development for more than ten years. Prior to PPC, Paul was the Director and Managing Partner of Robert W. Baird & Co.’s Private Equity Group (a buyout, growth and venture investor) after serving as Co‐Director of Investment Banking responsible for Robert W. Baird & Co.’s Mergers and Acquisitions Advisory practice. Previously, Paul was Senior Vice President in the Investment Banking Group at Kidder, Peabody & Co.

In 2016, Paul received the Stanley C. Golder Award from the Illinois Venture Capital Association in recognition of his contributions to the private equity industry in Illinois. Paul has served as an EY Entrepreneur of the Year regional judge as well as national judge for the Family Business category. In 2020 and 2022, Family Capital magazine named Paul one of the Top 100 most influential people among family investors and family enterprises. In 2024, Paul was named to Family Capital magazine’s FamCap 50 as one of the top investors in the world of family capital.

Paul serves on the board of trustees or directors of The University of Chicago, University of Chicago Medical Center, The Art Institute of Chicago, The Larry H. Miller Company, and Misericordia Home. He also serves on the Board of Advisors for Morgan Street Holdings. In addition, Paul is a member of the Commercial Club of Chicago.

Paul received his M.B.A. from Harvard Business School and his B.A., Phi Beta Kappa, from The College of the University of Chicago.

John Cowles is a PPC Executive Advisor. John was formerly President and CEO of TruGreen. Earlier in his career, John held various leadership roles at FXI, Touchstone Wireless, George Weston Bakeries, and Kraft Foods. John received a BS in Operations Research and Industrial Engineering from Cornell University and an MBA from Harvard Business School.

Charlie Crew is a PPC Executive Advisor to Americhem and Plaskolite. Charlie was formerly President and CEO of SABIC Innovative Plastics. Earlier in his career Charlie spent nearly 30 years at GE Plastics, holding senior leadership roles in commercial operations, managing global ventures and leading the company’s European operations. At GE Plastics, he oversaw the company’s sale to SABIC and subsequent integration efforts. Charlie currently serves on boards related to the Handgard Company, A&R Logistics, and Unistress. He was previously on boards related to DuBois Chemicals, SABIC Company, and the American Chemistry Council. Charlie received a BS in Marketing from Villanova University.

Bob Feury is a PPC Executive Advisor and Chief Culture and People Officer of CRH. Bob joined CRH in 1996 with the acquisition of his family’s business and was formerly CEO of Allied Building Products. After 22 years, a strategic decision was made to divest CRH’s distribution business, and Bob and his team lead the sale of Allied to Beacon Roofing Supply (now QXO), a public company, in January 2018. After a brief transition period with Beacon, Bob returned to CRH as Executive Vice President of Strategy and Development for the Global Building Products business. Bob currently is a member of the CRH Executive Team. Bob received a BA in Finance from Syracuse University

John Fleming is a PPC Executive Advisor to Highline Warren. John was formerly interim CEO at rue21 and CEO of Global eCommerce at Uniqlo. Prior to rue21 and Uniqlo, John held a number of leadership positions at Walmart, including EVP - Chief Marketing Officer and EVP – Chief Merchandising Officer. John currently serves on boards related to UNTUCKit, rue21, and The Visual Comfort Group. He was previously on boards related to Bed, Bath, and Beyond and Stitch Fix. John received a BA in Political Economy from Colorado College.

Ken Lochiatto is a PPC Executive Advisor. Ken was formerly President and CEO of Convergint. He currently serves as Vice Chairman of the Board at dormakaba, Executive Chairman at Nations Roofing, and a Trustee at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. Ken received a BS in Mechanical Engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and an MBA from Carnegie Mellon University.

Fred Loeffel is a PPC Executive Advisor to Kenco Group. Fred was formerly EVP Strategic Development at GEODIS, where he was responsible for the commercial efforts that supported the growth of GEODIS Americas from <$100M annual revenue in 1995 to more than $3.8B in gross revenue in 2022. He previously held various industry roles including as an officer in WERC and CSCMP, as an instructor at the IWLA advanced course, and as a member of the logistics steering committee for the Consumer Health and Protection Agency in Washington DC. Fred currently serves on a board related to QuickBox Fulfillment. Fred received a BBA Marketing and Transportation from the University of Memphis. He also participated in the HBS “Managing in Crisis and Business of Platform” executive series and earned a certificate in Disruptive Strategies.

Joe Metzger is a PPC Executive Advisor to Sugar Foods and is also a lecturer at the University of Arkansas. Joe was formerly EVP, Supply Chain Operations at Walmart. Earlier in his career, Joe held various leadership roles at Kellogg Company and Kraft Foods. Joe currently serves on boards related to SureWerx, the National FFA Organization’s Executive Sponsors, and the Springfield, Missouri Area Chamber of Commerce. Joe received a BS in Dairy Science from South Dakota State University.

Chris O’Brien is a PPC Executive Advisor and President of Armada Sunset Holdings. Stepping into the role of CEO at Armada in 2026, Chris is leading the unification of Armada’s operating companies into a single, integrated organization. He is focused on uniting strategy and execution to accelerate innovation, expand Armada’s presence in high-impact markets, and drive growth in supply chain and logistics services. Before joining Armada, Chris held senior leadership roles at C.H. Robinson, a Fortune 250 company, including Chief Commercial Officer. He also serves on the board of directors at STAT Recovery Services, holds a B.A. from Alma College—where he is a member of the President’s Advisory Council—and is a former board member of the University of Minnesota’s Landscape Arboretum.

Larry Oberkfell is a PPC Executive Advisor to CHG and is also a Partner at Kinetic12. Larry was formerly President and CEO of IFMA. Earlier in his career, Larry held various leadership roles at Schwan Food Company, Anchor Food Products, and GESD Capital. Larry previously served on a board related to the National Restaurant Association. He also was active in industry-related groups such as the GS-1 Executive Committee. Larry is the recipient of the first Oberkfell Award, created and awarded in 2021 by the IFMA Board of Directors to recognize outstanding contribution to the industry. Larry received a bachelor's degree from the University of Missouri and holds an M.B.A. from St. Louis University.

John Van Hulle is a PPC Executive Advisor for Americhem. John is CEO of Aurorium. Earlier in his career, John held leadership roles at PolyOne, ChemDesign Corporation, Cambrex Corporation, and General Chemical Corporation. John currently serves on boards related to Laszeray Technology and Northwest Hardwoods. John received a BS in Chemical Engineering from the University of Michigan and an MBA in Operations Management and Finance from California State Polytechnic University-Pomona.

David White is a PPC Executive Advisor. David was formerly CEO of Border States and now remains involved as Board Chair. He also held the positions of President and Executive VP. Earlier in his career, David held various leadership roles at Shealy Electrical Wholesalers. David currently serves on boards related to ACCO Engineered Systems and Cristo Rey Network. He was previously on boards related to Affiliated Distributors, N.B. Handy, National Association of Electrical Distributors and The Hite Company. David received a BS in Civil Engineering from Ohio University.

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