SMS

A leading provider of mission-critical maintenance service programs for computer hardware

OVERVIEW

In 2005, Frontenac worked with SMS’s founder, Tom Welch, to craft a partnership addressing a complex set of needs: leadership succession, management continuity, founder liquidity, and capital for growth.

A CONVERSATION WITH JOSEPH SCORDINO

I started with SMS right out of college in 1986 and married the founder’s daughter. Frontenac’s experience with family businesses was critical in two respects. First, it was clear they understood the emotional attachment most owners have to their business. It’s as much about the people as it is about money. They were very competitive on price and terms, but they were not the highest bidder. Second, Frontenac didn’t fit our preconceived notions about private equity firms. They never overpromised and always followed through on their commitments.