GHJ supported a private equity-sponsored waste and recycling company by reinforcing lender confidence, improving stakeholder alignment and supporting acquisition-related activity across multiple operating locations.
HIGHLIGHTS
- GHJ improved transparency between the client and lender during a period of instability by leveraging the Firm’s established lender relationships
- Through seasoned industry knowledge and tax, audit and advisory experience, the Firm supported the client in reducing operational risks during a difficult growth period
- GHJ’s Waste and Recycling Practice served as a key bridge between the financial backer and operator to improve communication, alignment and stability
BACKGROUND
A private equity-backed hauling operation with multiple national locations engaged GHJ following a referral from a commercial banker that specializes in the waste and recycling industry. The hauling company, at the onset of the relationship with GHJ, was experiencing dysfunction between its financial sponsor and the operator, which was creating challenges in communication, financial performance and alignment across the business. As a result, the hauler’s financial reporting was unreliable and growth was stalled.
GHJ'S APPROACH
GHJ worked across multiple service areas to support the company and its stakeholders during a challenging period. Key focus areas included:
- Audit and Tax Support: Delivered core audit and tax services across a multi-location operation to uncover gaps in financial performance and implement best practices
- Due Diligence: Supported several due diligence engagements tied to the company’s acquisition activity to strengthen its M&A strategy
- Stakeholder Alignment: Acted as an intermediary between the financial backer and operator to improve communication, financial visibility and alignment
- Lender Confidence: Maintained a strong working relationship with the lender and reinforced confidence through consistent engagement and trusted relationships across parties
- Industry Expertise: Applied tenured waste and recycling sector knowledge to support a clearer understanding across stakeholders
RESULTS
GHJ’s deep waste and recycling sector experience enabled the Firm to understand operational nuances, lender expectations and acquisition-related complexities without disrupting day-to-day operations. The team supported the client’s financial operation improvements and acquisition activity as the hauling company worked through this period of instability. Further, the Firm streamlined communication between stakeholders, coordinated audit and tax services for the business and reinforced lender confidence with better financial visibility.
