Executive Summary3 Pillar Investments, LLC, led by Ray Calderon, aims to acquire, optimize, and scale a servicebasedbusiness with strong growth potential. The strategy focuses on modernizing operations,enhancing sales, implementing lean management, and pursuing roll-up acquisitions to maximizevalue.…
Executive Summary
3 Pillar Investments, LLC, led by Ray Calderon, aims to acquire, optimize, and scale a servicebased
business with strong growth potential. The strategy focuses on modernizing operations,
enhancing sales, implementing lean management, and pursuing roll-up acquisitions to maximize
value. The initial 1–3 years will prioritize organic growth, followed by strategic acquisitions to
drive scale. The target exit is a sale within 7–10 years, delivering substantial returns to investors
through a disciplined value-creation approach.
Buyer Background
Ray Calderon, a self-funded searcher, brings a robust blend of operational, sales, financial, and
strategic expertise. With an MBA from Kellogg (2022, Finance and Strategy) and a B.S. from
Indiana University’s Kelley School of Business (Business Administration), Ray has a strong
academic foundation. His professional experience spans technology, consulting, CPG, and
private equity, with key roles in sales, strategy, marketing, supply chain, and partner
management.
Relevant Experience:
Self-Funded Search Internship (Summer 2021): Sourced deals, conducted industry
research, raised equity, submitted three LOIs, and supported the acquisition of a roofing
company in Raleigh, NC.
Private Equity Internship, Sunny River Management: Developed LBO models,
conducted financial analysis, reviewed CIMs, crafted investment theses, and performed
due diligence.
Monro Capital Internship (Real Estate PE): Built waterfall models, contributed to
pitch decks, and supported investor communications.
Slalom Consulting (Post-MBA): Led projects in sales optimization, go-to-market
strategy, and cost reduction for CPG clients; managed a financial close for a PE-backed
landscaping firm.
Current Role: VP of Sales Strategy at a client company, advising on sales and product
strategy.
Ray’s diverse experience, extensive network, and operational acumen position him to
successfully acquire and grow a business.
Investment Criteria
3 Pillar Investments seeks to acquire a service-based company with strong fundamentals,
operational inefficiencies, and roll-up potential. The focus is on value-add opportunities where
modernization and strategic growth can unlock significant value.
Target Company
Longevity: Minimum 8 years in business, with consistent revenue growth over the last 3
years and stable pre-COVID performance (2018–2019).
Financials: EBITDA margins of 10-20%+ post-due diligence, with clean financials and
verifiable cash flows.
Management: Traditional management teams with at least 10 employees. In smaller
firms, employees must demonstrate effective multi-role performance. Sellers must
commit to a minimum 3-month transition period, with longer commitments preferred.
Additionally, a non-compete will be signed to restrict seller from comparable operating
companies and employee recruitment, regardless of reason for sell.
Industry Focus
Primary focus on service-based industries with recurring revenue and consolidation
opportunities, including:
Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) Sales & Marketing (e.g., Food Brokers)
Landscaping (Design, Build, Construction, Maintenance)
HVAC and Home Services
Wholesale Distribution
Auto Repair/Collision
Opportunities in adjacent sectors will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
Deal Size
EBITDA Range: $750,000–$3 million
Valuation: Target 2.5x–4x EBITDA multiple, prioritizing the lower end for value
creation.
Geography
Primary focus on Illinois and Colorado, with flexibility to pursue compelling opportunities
nationwide.