Episode Overview
The private equity boom that swept up HVAC and plumbing companies over the past 10-15 years is now focused on the roofing industry, according to LB Capital VP of Special Operations Kelly Mesaris.
A former HVAC business owner herself, Mesaris’ job these days is identifying perfect roofing company partners for LB Capital.
She’s got a no-nonsense business model that involves a unique partnership with roofers, allowing owners to make million-dollar exits. Often in 16 months or less.
Fast-paced? It’s the best way to make things happen, Mesaris says.
“Go for it,” she says. “Make mistakes and make those quickly. Because then you're gonna have more. Do things that actually stick and work versus overthinking, overcomplicating and not making any decision at all.”
Mesaris wants to make it clear that even though her process is streamlined, the private equity choice is not just about the bottom line.
She looks to partner with business owners who are family-oriented and also focused on the business. People who already have work-life alignment.
“If you have chaos in your personal life, that's just gonna roll over to your business life,” Mesaris says.
Along with having a strong leader, an ideal partner for LB Capital also has good team members. The owner can’t be the only person holding the company together, she says.
“You can go from being on top to zero if you don't have a good team in place,” Mesaris says.”
Her criteria for private equity partners makes sense – whether you’re building to sell or looking to tighten up your systems and scale.
Kelly Mesaris recently joined ServiceTitan’s Jackie Aubel on the “Toolbox for the Trades” podcast, which included Mesaris’ thoughts on:
[6:21] From $1.5M to $24.5M — the Mons Roofing case study
[11:31] Why private equity is all in on roofing right now
[16:52] Good company candidates for private equity
[21:23] Misconceptions about private equity and why it's not just about EBITDA
[26:00] Advice for women looking to break into the trades
To hear more stories from the trades, subscribe to Toolbox for the Trades on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google, or anywhere you get podcasts.
Related Videos
About ServiceTitan
ServiceTitan is a comprehensive software solution built specifically to help home service companies streamline their operations, boost revenue, and substantially elevate the trajectory of their business.
Our comprehensive, cloud-based platform is used by thousands of electrical, HVAC, plumbing, garage door, and chimney sweep shops across the country—and has increased their revenue by an average of 25% in just their first year with us.
Ready to learn more about what ServiceTitan can do for your business?
