Market Research Report: BlackArch Partners

Company Overview

BlackArch Partners is a prominent middle-market investment bank headquartered in Charlotte, NC, with additional offices in Houston, TX. Founded in 2010, the firm employs approximately 71 individuals and achieved a peak revenue of $5.2 million in 2023. Known for its highly tailored solutions and differentiated approach, BlackArch Partners provides extensive M&A advisory services to owner-operators and financial sponsors, with a commitment to exceeding client expectations through meticulous process management.

Services and Expertise

BlackArch Partners specializes in both sell-side and buy-side advisory services, offering a comprehensive suite of strategic advisory offerings. The firm's expertise covers a variety of industries, including aerospace & defense, automotive aftermarket, building products & infrastructure, consumer products & services, and business services. With a successful track record of over 350 transactions across 16 countries on four continents, BlackArch demonstrates a strong capability in navigating complex transactions.

Key Personnel

The leadership team at BlackArch Partners consists of highly experienced M&A professionals:

• Doug Bolt, Managing Director and Head of Life Science and Healthcare Practice, brings over 20 years of banking experience.

• Brett Bond, Managing Director, is skilled in mergers and acquisitions, corporate divestitures, and strategic planning.

• Gene Bowles, Managing Director, emphasizes relationships with private equity and asset management firms, drawing from his background at Regions Securities LLC.

• Will Cooper, a co-founder of BlackArch, serves as Managing Director and Co-Head of the Energy and Infrastructure & Construction industry practices.

This dedicated team ensures that each transaction is managed with precision and strategic insight.

Recent Developments

BlackArch Partners has announced key promotions reflecting its growth initiatives, including the promotion of Clay Bryan to Managing Director. The firm has been actively involved in significant transactions such as the recapitalization of the Apollo Group in partnership with Oaktree Capital Management and the acquisition of Wolf-Gordon Inc. by Charger Investment Partners.

Client Testimonials

Clients of BlackArch Partners consistently express high satisfaction with their services and transaction outcomes:

• Jeff Mudge, Managing Partner at ShoreView Industries, praises BlackArch's detailed understanding and targeted approach.

• Jack McDonald from Matco-Norca highlights the firm's invaluable guidance during critical decision points.

Competitor Profiling

Market Position

BlackArch Partners is a leading player in the middle-market M&A advisory field. It maintains a unique position by offering bespoke services, often preferred for sponsor exits due to its specialized expertise in the middle market. This focus allows BlackArch to compete effectively in its niche against larger firms.

Major Competitors

• Marlin & Associates: Recently acquired by D.A. Davidson & Co., known for its robust presence in technology and international markets.

• 7 Mile Advisors: Acquired by Houlihan Lokey, focuses on business services and technology industries.

• Cascadia Capital: With a revenue of $41.2 million and 350 employees, offers capital raising and strategic advisory services, providing more comprehensive resources than BlackArch.

• Moelis & Company: A global leader with $1.558 billion in revenue, offering a significant advantage in international transactions.

Strategic Positioning

While operating on a smaller scale, BlackArch Partners leverages its concentrated market knowledge and middle-market focus to drive successful client engagements. Offering integrated services that align with niche markets, BlackArch provides highly valuable solutions to specific client needs, setting it apart from competitors who may overlook these opportunities.

This strategic positioning ensures BlackArch Partners remains a formidable entity in the M&A advisory domain, consistently delivering superior results for clients in a dynamic market environment.