Nicholas Stancu might still be getting his ARM industry sea legs under him, but so far, he has taken to the industry like a duck to water. Maybe it’s his unique job title, or the mission that brought him to the ARM industry, or maybe that it’s just because he’s a “Star Wars” fan, but regardless of the reason, it’s reaffirming to see someone in his position see the value in the people and companies that make up this industry. Read on to learn more about Nicholas, how he manages to get work in while being the father of a newborn, and the collection of his that he is most proud of.
Name: Nicholas Stancu
Current Role/Job Title: I like to call myself an acquisition entrepreneur
Company: Pelagic Capital Partners
Length of time at current company: 1 year
Length of time in industry: Less than 1 year
How did you get your start in the industry?
My background is in private equity as a dealmaker and capital allocator. I noticed early on that many business owners don’t think much about succession planning or when/how to exit in many cases their most valuable asset. This is no different in the ARM industry where I see a tremendous opportunity to provide liquidity and a succession solution to many small agency owners. I am not an investment fund, nor am I a competitor looking to absorb small businesses. Instead, I bring long-term commitment and perspective, allowing business owners to take a step back from the business while preserving their legacy.
What is your career highlight so far?
Advising Disney on the acquisition of Lucasfilm. As a “Star Wars” fan it was an incredible experience to work with such a talented group of people and to breathe new life into this storied and beloved franchise.
When or how are you most productive?
During those short windows of opportunity when my newborn is sleeping! On a serious note, I find that I am most engaged and productive when thinking through and tackling big strategic issues as a team.
Which industry professional do you admire most?
I recently had the opportunity to work with Sara Woggerman on a comprehensive compliance review of an acquisition target and am thoroughly impressed by her deft touch and vast knowledge of all things compliance. Due diligence processes can be long and stressful, but Sara was extremely easy to work with and provided practical and solution-oriented advice to the management team and me.
What is one thing you do better than everyone else?
My secret to success is equally simple and challenging – bring excellent people together around a common goal and get out of their way.
What do you like most about this industry?
People and data. I have found everyone in the ARM industry to be open, smart and genuinely engaged with consumers and clients. Also I am numerically inclined and have found the field to be a data-rich playground.
What is one thing you wish you could change about this industry?
As a relative newcomer to the space, one of the first things I encountered was the sheer amount of negative press. Every industry has its share of bad actors, but my experience so far dealing with operators has been quite the opposite. I wish that in time the industry can cleanse itself of this reputational stink.
If you weren’t in this industry, what would you be doing?
Finding small businesses in need of succession solutions in other industries.
Describe a typical work day
I like to kick-off the day with a run, followed by coffee and emails. Generally there is no ‘typical’ day after 10am. I may be out meeting with business owners at site visits, coordinating due diligence work or drafting agreements with my attorneys. Dealwork tends to be unpredictable and requires flexibility and focus.
What is your guilty pleasure?
I am a passionate fisherman and spend way too much money on shiny fishing lures (many of which never even see the water). My collection of fishing tackle almost rivals my wife’s wardrobe!
What is the best advice you’ve ever received?
No plan survives first contact. Improvise and adapt.
What are you currently reading?
“Benjamin Franklin: An American Life” by Walter Isaacson
What is one fact you’d like everyone in the industry to know about you?
That I’m a straight shooter and fair dealer. Chances are that if we are in contact, it is around a M&A situation. Mutual trust is everything when selling a business and I have built my career and reputation based on honesty and expertise.
Who else would you like to see answer these questions?
Arthur Sanders of Barron & Newburger
