Highland Consumer Fund – a fund led by Staples founder Tom Stemberg – has added Peter Cornetta as a new partner. Mr. Cornetta will focus on investing in growth-oriented companies and will work with existing portfolio companies of Highland.
Mr. Cornetta has spent the last ten years in mergers and acquisitions leading investments in consumer sectors, media, healthcare services and manufacturing. As a Managing Director at H.I.G. since 2003, he has been involved in all aspects of the investment process from investment origination, transaction negotiation, and post-closing development. Prior to joining H.I.G. Capital, he was a Principal with Advent International.
“There is no substitute for experience and with Peter’s extensive M&A background we add a critical asset to our team,” said Tom Stemberg, Managing General Partner. “Peter understands the journey from first investment through rapid growth and ultimately an IPO or acquisition strategy. He will be an exceptional addition to the Highland Consumer Fund.”
The Highland Consumer Fund specializes in consumer products, services and retail investment opportunities. The firm has invested in such firms as City Sports, Guitar Center, J.McLaughlin , Pharmaca Integrative Pharmacy and Pinkberry. The Highland Consumer Fund was founded in 2007 and is based in Lexington, MA (www.hcp.com).
“The launch of the Highland Consumer Fund in 2007, filled a void in the underserved consumer market community that was ripe with promising investment opportunities,” said Mr. Cornetta. “Tom Stemberg has built an organization based on a focused approach and strategy to developing the next generation of consumer-facing enterprises that are primed and ready for active IPO and M&A markets.”
© 2013 PEPD • Private Equity’s Leading News Magazine • 1-15-13
