“Be quick, be quiet, and be on time.”
“Kelly” Johnson, Founder of Skunk Works
Our Operating Principles
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Cultivate the lower middle market.
We believe in partnering with founders and operators to build and grow businesses over the long-term. Our ideal acquisition generates between $5 and $30 million of EBITDA and occupies a strong position in a distinct customer niche where close end-user relationships make a difference in our ability to generate value for all stakeholders.
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Create value through strategic management.
By clearly defining an organization's purpose, mission and vision, and shaping practical business plans together with management teams, our businesses achieve their long-term goals. We help leaders build strategies that align resources with objectives, foster innovation, improve efficiency, and enhance competitive advantage.
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Mentor the next-generation of leaders.
Proteus is designed to optimize the growth and performance of our portfolio companies. Investing heavily in our key leaders and their respective leadership teams, we promote professional and personal development by leveraging Proteus’ unique collective experience, market reach, and network.
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Share back-offices and best practices.
By sharing compliance, legal, finance, and administrative functions, our businesses can afford large-cap capabilities that would otherwise be out of reach. Managers benefit by redirecting their focus towards strategic initiatives and growth opportunities like innovation, customer relationships, and competitive positioning.
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Avoid excessive debt.
Excessive debt can stifle our ability to invest in innovation and growth. By keeping debt at manageable levels, Proteus can allocate more resources towards research and development, expanding market reach, and improving operational efficiencies. This approach not only safeguards our financial health but also fosters long-term growth.
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Be patient.
By avoiding rushed decisions, often driven by arbitrary timelines, Proteus allows its businesses and leaders to achieve better outcomes. Patience allows for the implementation of value-enhancing initiatives, such as operational improvements and strategic repositioning, which can take years, but make the business stronger and valuable.