CHICAGO, IL – May 2, 2005 – WHI Capital Partners, a Chicago-based
private equity firm targeting investments in leading businesses in the
lower middle market, is pleased to announce that Martin Gagen has
joined the firm’s Advisory Board. Mr. Gagen is known foremost as former
CEO and President of 3i, one of the oldest and most successful global
private equity firms in the world. He will assist WHI Capital Partners
in enhancing its deal flow, evaluating investment opportunities,
managing its portfolio companies and setting the firm’s strategic
direction.
“We are both excited and extremely honored to have Martin join our
Advisory Board,” said Adam Schecter, Managing Partner/ WHI Capital
Partners. “Martin’s investment experience along with his keen
understanding of how to build a world-class private equity firm will
undoubtedly be invaluable for us as we grow our firm, portfolio and
capabilities.”
“WHI Capital Partners is establishing themselves as a leading
private equity firm and I am thrilled to be a part of their group and
the William Harris Investors organization”, said Mr. Gagen. “This part
of the middle market is ripe for investment and WHICP’s operational
focus and differentiation from other private equity firms certainly
bodes well for their success.”
Mr. Gagen is a 20-year private equity veteran who spent most of his
career as a member of 3i’s Executive Board as well as CEO of 3i’s US
and Asian businesses. During his tenure, he was responsible for the
global direction of 3i’s 14-country organization, founded 3i’s US
investment operation, and led 3i’s expansion into China. He was co-head
of 3i’s UK business where he oversaw its London-based Technology and
Management Buyout Groups and led the Group’s Asset Management,
Corporate Finance and Legal Teams. Martin qualified as a chartered
accountant with Arthur Andersen. He has also worked for Investcorp in
the USA, Italy, France, and the UK where he focused on luxury goods
companies including Gucci, Chaumet, Breguet, and Saks Fifth Avenue, as
well as industrial companies including Club Car and Meuller Pumps. He
has deep experience in early and late stage venture investing,
leveraged buyouts, and industry consolidations.
About WHI Capital Partners
WHI Capital Partners is a private
equity firm that invests in profitable, mid-size companies with leading
market positions and revenues of $10 – 100 million. Our operational
expertise coupled with our investment capabilities and flexibility
makes us uniquely positioned to build better businesses. Backed by the
strength and depth of our parent firm William Harris Investors, WHI
Capital Partners brings ample professional and financial resources to
capitalize on a company’s opportunities over the long-haul.