Robert completed in-depth training for the Paul Davis franchise opportunity, found that specific lines of business within restoration were more attractive than others and researched the industry in great detail. After completing the research, Robert formed NuMax Restoration (and sold the Paul Davis franchise). NuMax Restoration specializes in contents restoration (contents are all the belongs contained in the home or commercial business, versus than the actual real estate (i.e., building) itself. NuMax opened for business in October and 2020, and after three to four months of set-up, went to market in January/February 2021. After a successful 2021 calendar year, fund-raising occupied most of 2022. In the process of fund-raising, Robert focused on franchising the contents restoration business model.

After his second stint at ScottMadden, Robert took a year or so to spend with his family, get his daughter all set up in college and travel. After such, Robert spent significant time on research, writing business plans (2) and socializing such with potential investors. During this process Robert acquired a franchise in the restoration business – Paul Davis Restoration – restoring homes and businesses after a fire and/or flood, or other natural disasters.

Teamed with Navigation Capital Partners, a private equity firm targeting middle-market companies, to acquire companies in the intelligent infrastructure space.

Led acquisition of SM&P Utility Resources, Inc. for Laclede GroupTook the helm as President of SM&P in 2002, leading the company from $85M in revenue to $170MUpgraded senior leadership talentRedefined strategy, uniting the organization around clear directionDesigned and implemented new measures and feedback systemInitiated product development to support differentiation strategyTransformed product offering by combining hardware, software and service into a differentiated product offeringResults:Created over $155M in incremental shareholder valueGenerated $50M in operating cash flowProduced a CAGR on investment of over 26% before considering leverage of capitalization structure utilized (40%+ given parent capitalization structure)Produced EBIT in first five years as President 10 times what it was in the prior 5 yearsImproved EBIT margin 100%, from 4% to 8% in an ultra-competitive market

Joined Laclede Group after leading the strategic planning effort as a Principal with ScottMaddenImplemented the new growth strategy for Laclede GroupNegotiatied the acquisition of SM&P Utility Services, Inc.

Led strategy development practice areaSpecialized in strategic planning, reengineering, change management and outsourcing

Began career in Finance Progressed through several analyst positonsPromoted to OperationsStarted and grew Coca-Cola service company

Analyzed acquisition opportunitiesPerformed due diligence workWorked on International Holiday Inn sale and World Bizarre deal

Graduated from management training programPromoted first from training program to Branch ManagerPromoted into commercial lending