In 2021, despite the challenges of the pandemic, Vestar achieved a great deal from both an investment and firmwide development standpoint. We invested in five new companies, maintaining a highly rigorous process while reviewing a record level of investment opportunities. We promoted and recruited outstanding talent, expanded our strategic/operating executive network, and deepened our expertise and eco-systems across our sector-focused groups. We also meaningfully amplified our ESG/DEI efforts by promoting related initiatives at our firm and at the portfolio company level, recruiting diverse talent, and expanding our giving through the Vestar Foundation.
We are aware that we face a challenging and complex market environment for investing. Factors such as inflation, supply chain obstacles, and COVID implications drive uncertainty. In the face of such complications, we continue to hone our time-tested investment strategy and reinforce our culture and values that have sustained us for 35+ years – teamwork, transparency, commitment, compassion, and respect.
New Platform Investments
In 2021, we added five new investments to our portfolio, across our three sectors of focus. We consistently seek to leverage our deep domain experience and sector focus to find attractive investment opportunities.
Portfolio Activity
Beyond our new investments, we partnered closely with our existing management teams to drive significant growth, both organically and through acquisition. We completed a number of accretive acquisitions and cash distributions across our portfolio. Furthermore, as part of our active value-add approach, we welcomed four new CEOs and promoted growth, innovation, cost optimization, and cybersecurity initiatives throughout the portfolio. We will continue our efforts to support and accelerate the potential of our businesses.
The Vestar Family
During 2021, Jake Olson, Diya Talwar, and Mike Vaupen were promoted to Managing Director. They have played integral roles in Vestar’s success, and we look forward to all they will accomplish in their elevated roles in the years ahead.
We are also pleased to share the new additions to the Vestar team. Please join us in welcoming them!
Our Commitment to ESG & DEI
Given recent events and resultant priorities, at Vestar, we have committed to be best-in-class in our ESG & DEI programs. We proudly uphold our ESG pledge to promote DEI principles with transparency and accountability at the firmwide and portfolio level.
Vestar Charitable Foundation
Seeded by the firm, our Foundation seeks to sponsor meaningful causes and match all charitable employee contributions.
Diverse Recruiting Initiatives
We partner with Seizing Every Opportunity (“SEO”) Scholars and Management Leadership for Tomorrow (“MLT”) to provide career opportunities for students from underserved backgrounds.
ESG Due Diligence & Monitoring
We partner with MALK to conduct thorough ESG risk analysis for our firm and all our investments, present and future.
Speaker Series
We regularly host outside speakers to educate and engage employees across the spectrum of important DEI issues.
SuitUp
Our second Annual SuitUp event was hosted in partnership with our portfolio company, Simple Mills. Our volunteers coached students through their business competition to create a new frozen dessert product for the Simple Mills brand. It was a sweet success!
Questions? Please do not hesitate to reach out to our Investor Relations team.
— Ken O’Keefe, Kimberly Lu, and Alyssa Stropoli