Press Release

Boston, MA—[June 21, 2024]—G2 Capital Advisors is pleased to announce the appointment of Emily Friedman as VP, Head of Talent. In this role, Emily will oversee G2’s comprehensive talent and HR functions, ensuring the firm attracts, develops, and retains top-tier talent to support its strategic growth and client service excellence.

G2CA Headshot Emily Friedman June 2024

Emily has been a valued Senior Advisor to G2 Capital Advisors for over a year, and her transition to a full-time role is a testament to her exceptional contributions and deep understanding of the firm’s culture and objectives. Based in Boston, Emily will report directly to Matt Konkle, President of G2 Capital Advisors.

“Emily’s extensive experience in human resources and her partnership approach to talent management has already made a significant impact on our organization,” said Matt Konkle, President of G2 Capital Advisors. “We are thrilled to have her join our team in a full-time capacity and look forward to her continued leadership in enhancing our talent strategy and supporting the firm’s growth.”

As VP of Talent, Emily will oversee all aspects of human resources, including hiring, onboarding, benefits, compensation, performance management, training, leadership development, and, most importantly, enhancing the overall employee experience. 

Emily began her career as an employment attorney before transitioning to in-house roles, focusing on talent and administrative functions. She has held key HR positions at several prestigious investment and consulting firms, including The Baupost Group, Arrowstreet Capital, Altman Solon, and Social Finance, an impact investment and advisory non-profit.

“Over the past year, I have witnessed firsthand the firm’s commitment to excellence and innovation, and I am excited to join G2 in this role officially,” said Emily Friedman, VP, Head of Talent. “I look forward to driving initiatives to enhance our talent strategy and foster an engaging and supportive employee experience.” 

G2 is confident that Emily’s extensive experience and passion for talent development will be a tremendous asset to the firm. Her appointment marks a significant milestone in G2’s ongoing commitment to excellence in talent management and employee engagement.

Emily holds an undergraduate degree from Tufts University and a law degree from Georgetown University. In addition to her professional accomplishments, she is an active volunteer with several Boston-based organizations, including Combined Jewish Philanthropies (CJP), Anti-Defamation League (ADL), Brookline Food Pantry, and her temple.

With interest rates remaining at multi-decade highs, more and more companies will face distress and be forced to evaluate options. If pursuit of lifeline capital or a trade sale exit doesn’t materialize for a company facing creditor uproar and a finite cash runway, winding down may be the unpleasant but necessary next step. Privately held companies in this difficult position should weigh the merits of various paths forward with guidance from trusted advisors.  

Available methods have pros and cons:

  • An informal wind-down and dissolution is straightforward but likely not feasible if remaining cash is insufficient to pay back creditors. 
  • Chapter 11 bankruptcy is a formal reorganization process that plays out in court. Often the best route for companies that have substantial operations and face the threat of heavy litigation, this proceeding rarely makes sense for a small company. It is expensive, public, requires court filings and approval for major actions, and takes at a minimum several months to complete. 
  • In a Chapter 7 bankruptcy, a court-appointed trustee administers the asset liquidation. Trustees often lack industry knowledge, incentives to act with urgency, and the ability to operate the business, should doing so for a short period benefit creditors. 
  • foreclosure sale under UCC Article 9, while quicker and cheaper than bankruptcy, may not yield optimal value for the assets, and requires that the lender take responsibility for the sale effort—which they may not have the resources, expertise, or desire to do. 

Enter assignments for the benefit of creditors. An “ABC” is a corporate liquidation process available to an insolvent company that has run out of options. A nimble procedure governed by state statute rather than federal law, ABCs are often an attractive alternative to bankruptcy and other options since they are usually faster, simpler, less expensive, and yield better outcomes. While not suitable for all situations (e.g., a company with highly complex multi-state operations and litigious creditors), an ABC is a recognized proceeding that a board can avail itself of to maximize recovery for creditors and minimize its liability. ABCs have grown in popularity in recent years with venture-backed technology companies and traditional brick-and-mortar firms alike.

Here’s how it works: with consent from its board and shareholders, a distressed company transfers ownership of its assets (technology, inventory, machinery, etc.) to a third-party fiduciary of its choosing—the “Assignee”—through a general assignment agreement. The Assignee then sells the assets in an accelerated timeframe, communicates with stakeholders, distributes remaining cash to creditors, and manages the administrative wind-down of the Company. 

While providing the company’s board members and officers with many of the protections of a bankruptcy proceeding, an ABC can be effectuated at a fraction of the cost. ABCs happen without judicial oversight in many states (California, Massachusetts, Illinois, etc.), enabling Assignees to move quickly. A speedy process maximizes creditors’ recovery, since many acquirers want to pursue, in parallel with their purchase of the assets, a company’s customers and key employees as well—who would likely be off the market if the process were to take too long. The Assignee is able to continue to operate the business, as long as those operations are financially solvent. 

Exploring an ABC makes sense when it becomes clear runway is limited. If the business will be unable to remain a going concern without the closing of a company sale transaction or capital infusion, contingency planning around wind-down options, including ABCs, is prudent.    

When a company approaches insolvency (inability to pay debts as they come due) the board must act with caution since creditors replace shareholders as the primary beneficiaries of any residual value of the business. Directors of an insolvent corporation are exposed to claims from creditors that the directors’ actions harmed enterprise value and thus failed to protect creditors’ interests. If future prospects are limited and ongoing operations would deepen financial troubles, an ABC can be a graceful way to exit and should be considered. 

Who benefits in an ABC?

  • the creditors – since an experienced Assignee is officially working to maximize their recovery. The Assignee can take the assets to market immediately upon ABC launch (as opposed to the three-to-six-week delay in a Chapter 7 bankruptcy), and engage company personnel to assist, thus preserving asset value and institutional knowledge. 
  • the board – since they can minimize their liability by resigning day one of the ABC, and do not face the disclosure requirements (and therefore stigma) of a bankruptcy.
  • the acquirer – since the assets are sold free and clear of liens and related liabilities, and the sale can close quickly—without the need to obtain court approval (in many states).
  • the company’s vendors and customers – since they can start a fresh relationship with the (presumably solvent) asset buyer.

How G2 can help

As a premier financial advisory boutique, G2 helps troubled companies evaluate available options, gain stakeholder buy-in, and implement the best solution. G2’s experience with ABCs and other fiduciary services covers an array of industry sectors and geographies. Our investment banking prowess ensures a professional asset sale process that will yield the highest possible recovery for creditors. G2’s capabilities in special situations span the full range of operational and financial restructuring options available to distressed middle market companies. As an effective tool for both satisfying creditors and allowing stakeholders to exit, an ABC is one such option that a company facing crumbling business prospects may want to consider.

G2 Capital Advisors, a leading middle-market investment banking firm, is pleased to announce the addition of Jim Goodwin to the firm as a Director on the Technology & Business Services (TBS) team. With more than 7 years of experience at Morgan Stanley, Jim brings a wealth of expertise in M&A, debt advisory, and equity advisory transactions to G2.

During his tenure at Morgan Stanley, Jim demonstrated exceptional skill in sourcing, originating, and executing complex financial transactions. His proficiency spans across the Technology & Business Services sector, with a strong focus on education technology and services. Jim’s arrival marks an exciting opportunity for G2 as he will expand the firm’s existing track record and industry relationships in the Education Technology vertical.

Kerri Ford, MD & Practice Leader of Technology and Business Services at G2, comments, “Jim’s connections and proven track record within the Education Technology community and his extensive experience advising technology companies on a full range of M&A, debt and equity solutions will be of great value to our clients and further strengthens our platform.” 

Prior to his career in finance, Jim served with distinction in the United States Marine Corps and has over 10 years in uniform. His leadership roles within the Marine Corps, both domestically and during active deployments to Afghanistan, have instilled in him a deep sense of discipline, strategic thinking, and dedication.

“We are thrilled to welcome Jim to the G2 team,” said Matt Konkle, President at G2 Capital Advisors. “His extensive experience, coupled with his professionalism and leadership qualities, will undoubtedly enhance our capabilities and offerings in the Technology & Business Services sector and the G2 team at large. We look forward to the contributions he will make to our team and our clients.”

A proud alumnus of the University of Chicago Booth School of Business and the United States Naval Academy, Jim’s academic background reflects his commitment to excellence. He currently resides in Carlsbad, CA, with his wife and son, where he will continue to deepen G2’s presence in Southern California. 

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G2 Capital Advisors has recently announced significant developments in its sponsor coverage strategy. The appointment of Dan Almon as Director and promotion of Bridget McGillicuddy within the Sponsor Coverage Group. These strategic decisions underscore G2’s dedication to serving clients effectively and providing top-tier experiences to the financial sponsor community.

With nearly 15 years of experience and a robust track record as an institutional investor supporting middle-market growth companies, Dan brings invaluable expertise to G2. His tenure as Partner and Co-Founder of Prospect Creek Partners, along with previous roles at Mountaingate Capital and Baird Capital, emphasize his deep understanding of the needs and dynamics of the financial sponsor landscape. Moreover, having previously been a client of G2 during their execution of the Vitalyst sale—a portfolio company of Baird Capital—to Alithya, Dan brings a distinct perspective on the firm’s services and capabilities.

“We are delighted to welcome Dan to the Sponsor Coverage team at G2. Our coverage of the sponsor community has long been a vital element to our business model,” said Andrew Keleher. “Dan’s extensive experience, strategic insight, and client-focused approach align seamlessly with G2’s commitment to enhancing relationships and driving business growth.”

Under Andrew’s leadership, Dan will play a pivotal role in supporting the firm’s strategy and expanding its coverage capabilities. His expertise spans various sectors complimentary to G2’s focus areas including technology, tech-enabled services, business services and healthcare services.  

“Dan’s credibility as a former private equity investor, his technical and transaction expertise and his outstanding network of industry relationships in the sponsor community will prove tremendously beneficial to our clients. His collaborative approach to relationship development and experience with G2 as a former client is a perfect match with our team culture.” said Matt Konkle, President of G2. 

In addition to Dan’s appointment, G2 celebrates the promotion of Bridget McGillicuddy within the Sponsor Coverage Group. Bridget’s dedication and exceptional performance have been instrumental in advancing the firm’s sponsor coverage strategy. Her promotion reflects G2’s recognition of her outstanding contributions and prioritization of nurturing talent within the organization.

“Bridget’s promotion is a testament to her work ethic and pursuit of excellence,” said Andrew Keleher. “We are confident that she will continue to excel in her expanded role.”

These strategic moves not only mark a pivotal milestone for the firm but highlight its ongoing pursuit of excellence in serving clients and fostering talent within the organization. G2 is poised to continue delivering exceptional service and tailored solutions to its financial sponsor community with a dedication to driving success and fostering lasting relationships.

Boston, MA – G2 Capital Advisors (G2) proudly announces its recognition as Investment Banking Firm of the Year at the prestigious 18th Annual Turnaround Awards presented by The M&A Advisor. This award celebrates G2’s unwavering client commitment, optimized deal outcomes, and exceptional team—and reaffirms its position as a leader in the industry.

The Turnaround Awards honor the achievements and successes of the leading firms and professionals in the mergers and acquisitions, financing, restructuring, and turnaround communities. G2’s meaningful contributions to over 150 client engagements in 2023 have earned the firm this distinguished title, highlighting its collective expertise in navigating complex financial transactions and restructuring scenarios.

G2 President Matt Konkle expressed his appreciation, stating, “Winning the Investment Banking Firm of the Year Award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team, who are each relentless in their pursuit of excellence in every aspect of our work.”

Ben Wright, Chief Operating Officer and Head of Restructuring at G2, emphasized the significance of this achievement, saying, “Being recognized as the Investment Banking Firm of the Year is a tremendous distinction. It reflects the energy and experience we bring to each client engagement—enabling innovative problem-solving with an approach rooted in a long-term perspective for maximizing value.

G2 extends its gratitude to The M&A Advisor for this recognition and looks forward to continuing its mission of providing unparalleled service and strategic guidance to clients and industry partners across its four core industries: Consumer & Retail, Industrials & Manufacturing, Technology & Business Services, and Transportation & Logistics.  

Boston, MA – G2 Capital Advisors (G2) announces the appointment of Randy Lay as Managing Director in the Restructuring & Revitalization group. With over 40 years of comprehensive expertise in financial and operational management, systems implementation, capital raising, restructuring, and M&A across diverse industries, Randy brings invaluable insight and leadership to the firm.

Prior to joining G2 Capital Advisors, Randy was a client in two distinct capacities. He served as the Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Williams Industrial Services Group, a provider of civil construction services to the nuclear and fossil energy generation markets. Before his tenure with Williams, Randy held various executive positions at GEO Specialty Chemicals, including Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer, Secretary, and Treasurer, during which time G2 also served as a strategic partner. 

Randy’s notable career includes pivotal senior financial and operational roles at organizations such as Lazydays RV, Universal Access, Metromedia Fiber Network, International Specialty Products, United Technologies, and Xerox. With extensive experience spanning diverse sectors including construction, chemical, retail, automotive, and telecommunications, Randy has consistently demonstrated his aptitude for navigating complex challenges to achieve favorable outcomes. With a robust background in manufacturing, construction, and distribution, both domestically and internationally, Randy is well-equipped to drive positive results for Restructuring & Revitalization clients on the G2 platform.

“We are thrilled to welcome Randy Lay to the G2 Capital Advisors team,” said Ben Wright, Chief Operating Officer at G2 Capital Advisors. “His wealth of experience and proven track record in financial and operational restructuring will further strengthen G2’s capabilities in serving our clients.” 

Ben Wright emphasized, “Randy’s depth of knowledge and strategic acumen make him an invaluable addition to our leadership team. We’ve seen how his insights have generated tailored solutions and exceptional results for our past clients.”

In addition to Randy Lay’s appointment, G2 Capital Advisors also acknowledges the recent addition of Nick Palumbo as an Associate on the Restructuring & Revitalization Team. Prior to joining G2, Nick served as an Investment Banking Associate at MUFG, where he developed complex 3-statement models, assisted in negotiating terms and credit agreements with private equity clients. Additionally, Nick has experience supporting credit and portfolio management at Galaxy Digital, New Mountain Capital, and Bank of America. Nick brings fresh perspective and dedication to delivering exceptional client service.

Interested in joining the G2 team? Explore and apply to open opportunities now.

About G2 Capital Advisors:

G2 Capital Advisors provides M&A, capital markets, and restructuring advisory services to the middle market. We offer integrated, multi-product, and sector-focused services by pairing highly experienced C-level executives with specialist investment bankers. We aspire to be our clients’ trusted advisors of choice, including corporations and institutional investors. For more information, visit www.g2capitaladvisors.com

Randy Lay
Managing Director, Restructuring
[email protected]

G2 Capital Advisors (“G2”), a leading investment banking and restructuring advisory firm, has expanded its senior leadership team by welcoming Jenny Lashway as Vice President of Finance. This strategic appointment aligns with G2’s continued commitment to supporting our firm’s evolution with seasoned and sophisticated executives. 

“We have achieved considerable growth over the last many years, but we are entering an exciting period of opportunity for our firm.  As G2 continues to scale, we need a complete leadership team that reflects and can support—our organizational depth. Jenny’s expertise not only strengthens our leadership team but also plays a pivotal role in shaping G2’s trajectory.” – Matt Konkle, President of G2 Capital Advisors.

Jenny Lashway joins G2 with nearly 20 years of financial experience at leading consulting firms, including Altman Solon, Huron Consulting Group, and FTI Consulting. In addition, Jenny worked in the Financial Reporting group of Boston-based hedge fund, The Baupost Group. As Vice President of Finance at G2, Jenny leads financial operations, including financial reporting, budgeting, forecasting, strategic finance initiatives, system optimization, and process improvement. Her analytic depth and appetite for solving new problems will help G2 optimize operations across diverse client needs and engagements.   

About G2 Capital Advisors:

G2 provides M&A, capital markets, and restructuring advisory services to the middle market. We offer integrated, multi-product, and sector-focused services by pairing highly experienced C-level executives with specialist investment bankers. We aspire to be the trusted advisor to our clients, including corporations and institutional investors. 

Interested in joining the G2 team? Explore and apply to open opportunities now.

Jenny Lashway
VP, Finance
[email protected]