Working with Gardner Standard

Throughout the transaction process before an investment, Gardner Standard works closely with you and your managers to establish an open dialogue. We work to ensure that our investments are structured in a manner that allows companies and their management teams to achieve their goals. We are thorough, but results-oriented. We are always happy to explain why we are asking certain questions or requesting certain due diligence materials.

After an investment is made, Gardner Standard continues its efforts to develop a true partnership with you and your management team. We will not micromanage how you and your managers operate your business, but are always available to help on an as-needed basis. Part of building a strong, enduring company is establishing an appropriate degree of structured formality. An essential component is the formation of a capable board of directors, which would include the chief executive officer of the company, members of Gardner Standard’s investment team and one or more outside directors who can help the company achieve its strategic plan.

Gardner Standard knows that every business is unique. Accordingly, Gardner Standard does not apply a “one-size-fits-all” methodology as it works with you and your management team. Instead, we work with you to prioritize and implement business-building opportunities. Below are examples of functional areas that we seek to build or maintain during our investment period.

• Monthly budgeting and establishment of periodic performance metrics
• Capital expenditure / research & development planning
• Competitive analysis
• Working capital management
• Acquisition strategy
• Marketing assessment
• Organic growth plan / channel analysis
• Information technology assessment
• Supply chain analysis
• Assess operating leverage

We will work with you and your management team to establish a feedback loop to track execution of the strategic plan and identify areas for refinement.