Edgewater Capital Partners Welcomes Joel Rathbun
Edgewater Capital Partners is excited to share the news that Joel Rathbun has joined the firm as a Partner. His focus will be on driving business development, executing deals, and managing the firm’s portfolio. With an impressive career spanning over 26 years in corporate development and investment banking, Mr. Rathbun brings a wealth of experience and expertise. His previous roles at Avient Corporation and Moelis & Company demonstrate his strong capabilities in the realms of advanced materials and specialty industrials.
Driving Growth and Strategic Execution
Before joining Edgewater, Mr. Rathbun spent more than 13 years at Avient, where he was instrumental in navigating corporate development during a transformative period for the company. His efforts included leading strategic acquisitions and divestitures that significantly shaped Avient's position in the market. Notable achievements under his leadership encompassed pivotal acquisitions, including Clariant's masterbatch division and DSM's Dyneema business. These strategic moves, along with over fifteen other acquisitions, transitioned Avient into a pure-play specialty materials solutions platform, marking a remarkable achievement.
An Experienced Professional in Investment Banking
Prior to his impactful tenure at Avient, Mr. Rathbun dedicated more than 13 years of his career to investment banking at Moelis & Company and CIBC World Markets. His advisory work covered various industrial sectors, with a special focus on advanced materials, chemicals, and aerospace & defense. This extensive experience equips him with the insights and knowledge that are vital in navigating today's complex business landscape.
Team Growth and Value Addition
Pete Ostergard, Managing Partner, expressed enthusiasm about Mr. Rathbun joining the Edgewater team, highlighting their longstanding acquaintance. He mentioned, “His deep sector knowledge, operational leadership, and mergers and acquisitions experience make him a perfect fit for our investment strategy.” Mr. Ostergard emphasized that Mr. Rathbun's collaborative approach will significantly benefit Edgewater’s team as well as the management teams they partner and support.
A Focus on Specialty Industrial Growth
Edgewater Capital Partners is dedicated to investing in lower middle-market companies within performance materials and services. With over twenty-five years in the industry, the firm has cultivated a profound understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities specific to sectors such as specialty industrials, life sciences, advanced materials, and specialty chemicals. This experience positions Edgewater to effectively invest in the right people, technologies, and facilities, aiming to enhance growth trajectories across these critical industries.
Commitment to Long-Term Success
Bringing Mr. Rathbun on board reflects Edgewater Capital Partners’ ongoing commitment to expand its team with highly qualified individuals. His extensive experience and strategic insight are expected to drive the firm's continued success in achieving growth targets and enhancing overall performance in the specialized sectors they serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Joel Rathbun?
Joel Rathbun is a seasoned professional joining Edgewater Capital Partners as a Partner, focusing on business development and deal execution.
What is Edgewater Capital Partners?
Edgewater Capital Partners is a private equity firm specializing in investing in lower middle-market performance materials and services businesses.
What industries does Edgewater invest in?
Edgewater invests in sectors such as advanced materials, specialty industrials, life sciences, and specialty chemicals.
What experience does Rathbun bring to Edgewater?
Mr. Rathbun has over 26 years of experience in corporate development, including pivotal roles at Avient Corporation and Moelis & Company.
How does Edgewater envision Rathbun's role?
Edgewater sees Mr. Rathbun contributing significantly to its business development strategy and enhancing portfolio management.
