Fractional Executive Leadership for PE Portfolio Companies

I’ve done cyber diligence on 40+ acquisition targets, integrated 8 acquisitions, and scaled a PE-backed platform from $15M to $50M revenue. I know what PE firms expect because I’ve operated inside portfolio companies.

Get The Operator’s Take

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The PE Security Challenge

PE operating partners need security and operational expertise across portfolio companies, but can’t justify full-time hires at every platform. Security gaps kill deals, crater valuations, and create liability that persists long after close.

During diligence, you need someone who knows what to look for. During integration, you need someone who’s done it before and knows where the landmines are. Post-acquisition, you need to standardize security posture across a portfolio without destroying operational value. Most consultants advise from outside; I’ve operated inside.

PE Transaction Experience

40+ Acquisition Targets

Done cyber diligence on 40+ acquisition targets across MSP, healthcare, and professional services

8 Integrations

Led security and IT integration for 8 acquisitions, designing playbooks used across all deals

$15M to $50M

Scaled a PE-backed platform from $15M to $50M revenue while holding CIO/CISO seat

How I Help PE Firms and Portfolio Companies

Conduct cyber diligence that surfaces real risk, not just checkbox compliance
Lead post-acquisition security integration with proven playbooks
Build standardized security frameworks across portfolio companies
Prepare portfolio companies for exit with transaction-ready posture
Provide fractional CIO/CISO coverage across multiple platforms
Advise operating partners on security and technology strategy

“Rick was consistently vigilant in maintaining executive-level awareness around risk and frequently took the lead in navigating customer security incidents that required coordination across legal, IT, and regulatory teams. He is a trusted voice, a steady hand in critical moments.”

Jay Krupp, SVP Account Management Services, Miva, Inc.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. The fractional model is designed for exactly this situation. I can provide oversight and strategic guidance across multiple platforms, with deeper engagement where needed. The Guardantix OS provides consistent frameworks that work across portfolio companies.

I assess security program maturity, incident history, compliance posture, technical debt, and key-person dependencies. I’m looking for deal-breakers and integration complexity, not just checking boxes. I’ve been on both sides of 40+ deals; I know what actually matters.

I’ve integrated 8 acquisitions. The key is having a playbook before you close, understanding what can wait and what can’t, and avoiding the common mistake of trying to standardize everything at once. I prioritize security and operational quick wins while building toward longer-term unification.

Transaction readiness is one of my core areas. I help portfolio companies build the security posture, documentation, and governance that survives buyer diligence. Better to fix gaps before the LOI than explain them during exclusivity.

Both. I can engage at the fund level for portfolio-wide oversight, or embed directly with portfolio company leadership for hands-on execution. The right model depends on your situation and how you want to deploy capital.

I Know What PE Firms Expect

I’ve done diligence on 40+ deals and integrated 8 acquisitions. The Operator’s Take is a complimentary conversation about your portfolio’s security posture and where the gaps are.