Our Team

Paul joined Roark in 2020. Prior to joining Roark, Paul spent 14 years in investment banking; the vast majority of this time was spent at Barclays, where he covered various sectors, including consumer / retail, healthcare, business services, industrials, and technology. During that time, Paul worked on M&A and financing transactions across much of the Roark portfolio. Prior to that, Paul worked at SunTrust Robinson Humphrey in the Consumer Group. Paul received a BBA in Finance and Real Estate from the Terry College of Business at the University of Georgia. 

Neal founded Roark in 2001 and is a member of Roark’s Investment Committee. In addition to his responsibilities as Managing Partner, Neal is most actively involved in Roark’s investments in Inspire Brands, Driven Brands, FOCUS Brands and Primrose Schools, and was previously the Chairman of the Board of Roark’s prior investment in Wingstop. Prior to founding Roark, Neal was Co-Founder and CFO of U.S. Franchise Systems (“USFS”).  Neal helped transform USFS from one brand with 22 hotels in nine states to three brands with more than 500 hotels in 50 states and five countries, making USFS the tenth largest hotel company in the United States.  Prior to founding USFS, Neal was a Principal of Odyssey Partners, L.P., a private investment partnership founded by Jack Nash and Leon Levy.  Prior to Odyssey, Neal was a Principal and General Partner at Acadia Partners, L.P. (now Oak Hill Partners) and subsequently a Managing Director of a successor company, Rosecliff Inc. Neal began his career in the corporate finance department at Drexel, Burnham, Lambert Incorporated. Neal received a B.A. from Lehigh University. 

Stephen joined Roark in 2005 and is a member of Roark’s Investment Committee. In addition to his responsibilities as General Counsel and Managing Director, Stephen is actively involved in the execution of all Roark investments, financings, recapitalizations and sales. Prior to joining Roark, Stephen was a Senior Vice President and General Counsel of USFS. While at USFS, he was also co-manager of Constellation Development Fund, LLC, a hotel investment vehicle. Stephen received a J.D. from the University of Chicago and a B.A. from Lehigh University. Stephen is a member of the Georgia Bar Association. 

Rajiv joined Roark in 2014. Prior to joining Roark, Rajiv was an Investment Banking Analyst at SunTrust Robinson Humphrey in the Technology & Services Group. Prior to SunTrust, Rajiv was an Associate in the Transaction Advisory Group at Ernst & Young. Rajiv received an M.S. and a B.S. in Accounting from the University of Florida and is also a Certified Public Accountant (inactive).

Tad joined Roark in 2023. Prior to joining Roark, Tad worked as an Associate within Grant Thornton’s Transaction Advisory practice. He received a BS in Business Administration from Georgia Institute of Technology.

Brock joined Roark in 2020. Prior to joining Roark, Brock worked as an investment banking analyst at Morgan Stanley in the Consumer and Retail Group. Brock received a B.A. in Economics from Dartmouth College.

Ben joined Roark in 2023. Prior to joining Roark, Ben worked as a Manager at Kurt Salmon, part of Accenture Strategy. He received a BBA in Finance from Emory University.

Reed joined Roark in 2022. Prior to joining Roark, Reed worked at Ernst & Young as a Financial Services Consultant. He received a B.S. in Industrial and Systems Engineering from the Georgia Institute of Technology.

Caitlin joined Roark in 2021. Prior to joining Roark, Caitlin worked as a Human Resources Coordinator at Noble Systems. Caitlin received a B.A. in Theatre from Furman University.

Lindsay joined Roark in 2024.  Prior to joining Roark, Lindsay was a Partner and Managing Director on the Consumer Retail Investment Banking team at William Blair where she spent her career advising market leading, high-growth consumer companies.  Lindsay received a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Miami University and a Master of Accounting from the University of Michigan.  

Coates joined Roark in 2021. Prior to joining Roark, Coates worked as a Senior Associate within PwC's Finance Management Consulting practice and as an Associate in PwC's Capital Markets Accounting Advisory Services (CMAAS).

Coates received his Master of Science in Accounting and Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of Georgia. He is a Certified Public Accountant. 

Justin joined Roark in 2024. Prior to joining Roark, Justin was an Associate Partner at McKinsey & Company in its global retail and consumer operations practice working with clients on supply chain, procurement, sustainability, and operations topics. He began his career in investment banking and corporate development. Justin received a Master of Business Administration from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business and a Bachelor of Science in Finance and Public Policy from The Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania.

Daniel joined Roark in 2023. Prior to joining Roark, Daniel worked as an Investment Banking Analyst at Bank of America in the Mergers and Acquisitions Group. He received a Bachelor of Science in Business with a concentration in Finance from New York University’s Stern School of Business.

Sabrina joined Roark in 2018 upon graduating with an MBA from The Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania. She serves on the board of directors of Mathnasium and is actively involved in Roark's investments in Primrose and The Cheesecake Factory. While completing her MBA, Sabrina worked at Amazon in the Retail Leadership Development program. Prior to business school, Sabrina worked at Goldman Sachs in New York, where she was a Vice President in the Equity Synthetic Products group. Sabrina received a B.A. in Economics from Stanford University.

Rob joined Roark in 2023. Prior to Roark, Rob worked as a Senior Systems Engineer at Nutanix. Prior to that, he worked as a Senior Consultant at LogicsOne.

Jason joined Roark in 2018. Prior to joining Roark, he spent eight years at KPMG, most recently as a Director in KPMG’s Strategy group, focusing on operational strategy and transformation initiatives. For the ten years prior to KPMG, Jason owned and operated two retail furniture franchises in the Atlanta area. Jason received an M.B.A from the University of Georgia and a B.S. in Psychology from the University of Florida. 

Abby joined Roark in 2024. Prior to joining Roark, she worked as an Executive Assistant for The Angell Law Firm, LLC. Abby received a Bachelor of Science in Middle Grades Education from Columbus State University.

Holly joined Roark in 2020. Prior to Roark, she was a Legal Department Operations Administrator and Executive Assistant with InterContinental Hotels Group. Holly received a B.A. in Communications from Georgia State University.

Tommy joined Roark in 2012. He serves on the board of directors of Jim 'N Nicks, is actively involved in Roark's investment in Installation Made Easy and previously worked on Roark's prior investments in Solterra, Quala, GFL Environmental and Waste Pro. Prior to joining Roark, Tommy worked as an investment banking analyst at Harris Williams & Co. in the Diversified Industrials Group, where he focused on middle-market mergers and acquisitions across a variety of sectors. Tommy received a B.S. in Business Administration from the Kenan-Flagler Business School at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Roanne joined Roark in 2021 and is a member of Roark's Investment Committee. She was formerly a Partner at Hellman & Friedman in San Francisco, where she focused on improving the value creation plans and operational efficiency of that firm's portfolio companies. Before joining Hellman & Friedman in 2017, Roanne spent over 12 years in Boston, London and Johannesburg with Bain Capital, where she was an Operating Partner. She has served on the boards of the Edcon Group, formerly South Africa's largest non-grocery retailer, and the French home furnishings and decor company Maisons du Monde. Prior to Bain Capital, Roanne was a consultant at McKinsey & Company, a correspondent and editor for Thomson Reuters and an investment banker at Morgan Stanley. She received an M.B.A. from Harvard Business School and a B.A. from the University of Virginia.

Stewart joined Roark in 2016. She is actively involved in Roark's investment in FOCUS Brands. Prior to joining Roark, Stewart worked as an Associate at L- Catterton, a private equity firm focused on growth equity investments and leveraged buyouts of retail and consumer product companies. She began her career at Goldman Sachs, where she worked in the firm's Consumer/Retail Investment Banking Group. Stewart received a B.A. in Literature and minors in Business and History from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Mahal joined Roark in 2017. Prior to joining Roark, Mahal was a Tax Senior Consultant in the investment management group at Deloitte Tax, specializing in the hedge fund and private equity fund sectors. Mahal received a BBA with a Concentration in Accounting from the Coles College of Business at Kennesaw State University. 

Peter joined Roark in 2023. He received a BS in Business Administration from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Jason joined Roark in 2020. Prior to joining Roark, Jason was an associate with H.I.G. Capital in the LBO Fund. Before H.I.G., Jason was an investment banking analyst with Guggenheim Partners in the Special Situations Group. Jason received a B.S. in Economics from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania.

Montavious joined Roark in 2021. Prior to joining Roark, he was a Technical Support Analyst at Rheem Manufacturing Company and a Senior Technical Support Level I at Right Networks. Montavious received a B.S. in Information Technology from Georgia Southern University.

Pete joined Roark in 2023. Prior to joining Roark, Pete worked at Papa Johns as a Manager of Strategic Market Planning. Before Papa Johns, Pete was a Consultant at Intalytics, where he worked with many of the largest QSRs and retailers in North America. Pete received a B.S. in Geography from University of Wisconsin-Whitewater and a M.S. in Business Analytics from University of Michigan-Dearborn.

Jake DiBenedetto joined Roark in 2022. He most recently worked at Credit Suisse where he was an Investment Banking Analyst in the Global Industrials Group. He has a B.S. in Business Administration from the Georgia Institute of Technology. 
 

Chip joined Roark in 2023. Prior to joining Roark, Chip worked at Home Depot as a Senior Software Engineer. Prior to that, he worked at Navistar as an Application Analyst Lead. Chip received a B.S. in Finance from Auburn University.

Holli joined Roark in March of 2007. Prior to joining Roark, she worked for an Atlanta-based private equity firm as an Executive Assistant and Office Manager. Holli graduated from the University of Alabama with a B.S. in Business Administration in 2003.

Christine joined Roark in July 2018.  Prior to Roark, she was a legal assistant for Caldwell, Propst & DeLoach, LLP.  Christine graduated with a B.S. from Florida State University in 2005.

David joined Roark in 2021. Prior to joining Roark, he was an Assurance Associate at EY. David received a B.S. in Business from the University of Georgia and a Master of Accountancy from the University of North Carolina. David is a Certified Public Accountant.

Allison joined Roark as Chief People Officer in 2020.  Allison is a Human Resources executive with over twenty years of experience and a successful track record of helping team members reach their potential.  Allison joined Roark from Aptean, a private-equity backed global provider of mission-critical ERP, Supply Chain and Compliance solutions.  At Aptean, she was Chief Human Resources Officer and a member of the senior executive team, responsible for developing and executing human resources strategy in support of the overall business plan. In that role, she oversaw, coached and developed thirty HR professionals across five countries and was responsible for HR related M&A activities for multiple carve-outs, add-on acquisitions, and an overall change of ownership.

Previously, she was the Chief People Officer at Jabian Consulting, a management and technology consultancy.  Allison started and spent the majority of her career at Accenture in various strategic and operational HR roles, including Managing Director, Human-Resources - Business Process Outsourcing.

Allison received her BBA in Marketing and International Business from the University of Texas at Austin.

Claire joined Roark in 2022. Prior to joining Roark, Claire worked at ZS Associates as a Senior University Recruiter. Prior to that, she worked at Northwestern Mutual as a Campus Recruiter and Addison Group as an Executive Search Consultant. She received a B.A. in Public Relations and Advertising from DePaul University. 

Sean joined Roark in 2020. Prior to joining Roark, Sean was a Senior Auditor in the Audit & Assurance Services function at Deloitte & Touche. Sean received his BBA in Accounting and his Master of Accountancy degrees from the University of Georgia. Sean is also a Certified Public Accountant.

Kyle joined Roark in 2020. Prior to joining Roark, Kyle worked as an investment banking analyst at RBC Capital Markets in New York, where he focused on mergers and acquisitions and strategic advisory across a variety of sectors. Kyle received a Bachelor of Accountancy from the University of Mississippi. 

Madeline joined Roark in 2020. Prior to joining Roark, Madeline worked as an investment banking analyst at SunTrust Robinson Humphrey where she focused on mergers and acquisitions and strategic advisory across the consumer & retail industry. Madeline received a B.S.B.A. with a concentration in Finance from the Scheller College of Business at Georgia Institute of Technology.

Sagar joined Roark in 2010. He serves on the board of directors of CKE and Massage Envy, is actively involved in Roark’s investment in ServiceMaster Brands and previously worked on Roark’s prior investments in Atkins Nutritionals, Peachtree Business Products and PSC Info Group. He was an Analyst with Roark in the summer of 2009. Sagar received a BBA from the Goizueta Business School at Emory University. 

Will joined Roark in 2019. Will has more than 12 years of experience across the consumer and retail industry. Prior to joining Roark, Will was a Director in KPMG’s Corporate Strategy practice, focusing on growth strategy, customer experience, business process improvement and post-merger integration for clients in both the private and public markets. While serving as a Corporate Strategy advisor, Will assisted his clients by aligning financial, business and operating models to craft and execute successful strategies. Will received a B.S.B.A. in Information Systems Management from Auburn University. 

Andy joined Roark in 2023. He has over 25 years of experience leading and advising on complex global transactions, strategic initiatives, and transformational programs. Prior to joining Roark, he was a Managing Director with Accenture and a Partner at EY where he worked on Private Equity and Corporate transactions. He was also a member of the management team of a private equity backed business services company. Andy received an M.B.A from Emory’s Goizueta Business School and a B.A. from Mississippi State University.

Dennis joined Roark in 2022 and is a member of Roark’s Investment Committee. He was a Partner and Head of the Consumer Private Equity practice at Ares Management, where he was responsible for sourcing and executing investments in private companies in the consumer goods, consumer services, e-commerce, retail, restaurant, leisure and lodging sectors. Prior to joining Ares in 2006, he worked at UBS Investment Bank, where he participated in the execution of a variety of transactions including leveraged buyouts, mergers and acquisitions, dividend recapitalizations and debt and equity financings. Dennis serves as a Trustee and Treasurer of The Center for Early Education.

Dennis received a B.S. from Virginia Tech in Electrical Engineering and an M.S. from the University of California, Los Angeles in Electrical Engineering.

Bennett joined Roark in 2023. Prior to Roark, Bennett was an Associate in the Corporate and Private Equity M&A practice at Kilpatrick Townsend & Stockton LLP. Prior to that, he worked in investment banking at JP Morgan. Bennett received his MBA and JD from Emory University and his BA from Tufts University.   

Paul joined Roark in 2014 and transitioned from Roark’s President to Senior Advisor in July 2023.  He is a member of Roark’s Investment Committee.  Prior to joining Roark, he was Co-Head of the Global Mergers & Acquisitions Group and a member of the Management Committee at Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP, the global law firm. Paul received his B.A. from Union College, where he is a member of its Board of Trustees, and his J.D. from the University of Chicago Law School, where he was a member of its Visiting Committee. During 2024, Paul will be in residence at Harvard University as a Fellow at the Advanced Leadership Initiative.

Jennifer joined Roark in June 2008. Prior to Roark, she was Office Manager for Dixie HomeCrafters/GutterGuard, LLC. Jennifer attended Kennesaw State University.

Sarah joined Roark in 2022. Prior to joining Roark, she was a Financial Analyst at U.S. Radiology. Prior to U.S. Radiology, Sarah was an Audit Senior at Deloitte. Sarah received her Master of Accountancy and Bachelor of Accountancy from the University of Mississippi. Sarah is also a Certified Public Accountant.

Amber joined Roark in 2022. Prior to Roark, Amber was a Registration Associate at Children's Healthcare of Atlanta. Amber received a B.S. in Integrated Studies from Kennesaw State University.

Clay joined Roark in 2007 and is a member of Roark's Investment Committee. He is actively involved in Roark's investments in Inspire Brands, Mathnasium, Nothing Bundt Cakes, Pet Retail Brands and Batteries Plus Bulbs. Prior to joining Roark, Clay was a Senior Associate in the transaction advisory services group at Ernst & Young. Prior to Ernst & Young, Clayton worked in the audit and risk advisory services group at KPMG. Clayton received a Master of Accountancy and a BBA from the Terry College of Business at the University of Georgia.

Daynia joined Roark in 2022. Prior to joining Roark, Daynia worked at Guggenheim Securities in Atlanta and at Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co (KKR) in New York City. Daynia received a B.S. in Biology from the University of Georgia.

Allison joined Roark in 2019. Allison serves as the Head of Diversity and Social Responsibility, developing and leading Roark’s initiatives related to diversity and inclusion and philanthropic giving and community service. She is also a member of Roark’s Responsible Investment Committee. Prior to joining Roark, Allison served on the Executive Team at Miller’s Ale House as the Vice-President of Marketing.  Prior to that, she held global and domestic brand and marketing roles with The Coca-Cola Company and Sprint, as well as developing and launching two start-up concepts in the retail and restaurant industries.  Allison received an M.B.A. and a B.S. from Cornell University, where she is currently serving a six-year appointed term on the President’s Council of Cornell Women to advance and champion women. She also serves on the Board of The Michelle McGann Fund, which advocates for diabetic children. 
 

Geoff joined Roark in 2010 and is a member of Roark’s Investment Committee. He serves on the board of directors of and is actively involved in Roark’s investments in Jim ‘N Nick’s, Massage Envy, Miller’s Ale House and Nothing Bundt Cakes.  Geoff was involved in Roark’s prior investments in Wingstop and FastSigns. Geoff is a past board member for the National Restaurant Association and served as a Trustee and Chair for the National Restaurant Association Education Foundation. Prior to joining Roark, Geoff was the President of Cinnabon, a division of FOCUS Brands. Prior to serving as President of Cinnabon, Geoff had responsibilities for franchise sales, real estate, design and construction and franchise administration for all of FOCUS Brands. Prior to FOCUS Brands, Geoff was Vice President of USFS, managing franchise sales and development for Microtel Inns and Hawthorn Suites in the Western U.S. Geoff started his career with the Bristol Hotel Company, a large hotel owner and operator, where he held roles from Director of Sales to General Manager. Geoff received a B.A. from The Cornell University School of Hotel Administration.

Pat joined Roark in 2011. He serves on the board of directors of and is actively involved in Roark's investments in Divisions Maintenance Group and Pet Retail Brands, and previously worked on Roark's prior investment in Wingstop. Pat received a B.S in Systems Engineering and Economics from the University of Virginia.

Cooper joined Roark in 2023. Prior to joining Roark, Cooper worked as a Senior Associate in the Assurance Services Group at RSM US LLP. Cooper received a Master of Accountancy and a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of Tennessee. Cooper is also a Certified Public Accountant.

Kevin joined Roark in 2019 and is a member of Roark’s Investment Committee. He serves on the board of directors of and is actively involved in Roark’s investments in PetValu (TSX: Pet), PartsTown, and Fitness Connection. 

Prior to joining Roark, he spent 13 years with The Home Depot, his last role being President, where he oversaw the strategy, sales and operations of the company’s digital & omni-channel efforts. Concurrent with this role, he also served as the Chief Marketing Officer for The Home Depot, overseeing the strategic branding, marketing and advertising direction of the company. 

Previously, he led The Home Depot’s Home Services businesses, the largest home services business in the country. Kevin joined The Home Depot in 2006 as a company officer, where he led technology teams focused on merchandising, stores, e-commerce, supply chain and the company’s international divisions.   

Prior to joining The Home Depot, Kevin spent ten years with GE, where he held CIO and CTO roles in a number of GE businesses (Healthcare, Renewables, Energy and GE Global Research). He started his career and spent eight years with Dow Chemical, working primarily in Plastics R&D and in Technology.  Kevin received a B.S. in Computer Science from Central Michigan University.

Gavin joined Roark in 2022. Prior to joining Roark, he worked as a Senior Consultant at Agillitics, where he focused on supply chain and data analytics.

Gavin received a Bachelor of Science in Industrial and Systems Engineering from Georgia Tech.

Chad joined Roark in 2009. He serves on the board of directors of Driven Brands and is actively involved in Roark’s investments in Inspire Brands and Self Esteem Brands. Chad received a BBA from the Terry College of Business at the University of Georgia.

Ben joined Roark in 2020. Prior to joining Roark, Ben was an associate at Harvest Partners in the Structured Capital Fund. Before Harvest Partners, Ben was an investment banking analyst in the Mergers & Acquisitions group at Jefferies. Ben graduated with an MBA and a B.S. in Finance and Accounting from the Kelley School of Business at Indiana University.

Ben joined Roark in 2022 and is actively involved in Roark’s data science and advanced analytics initiatives. Prior to joining Roark, Ben worked as a Senior Manager of Data Science at Coca-Cola where he built scalable data science solutions supporting strategic decision making and back-office transformations across the enterprise. Prior to Coca-Cola, Ben worked as a Senior Scientist at Revenue Analytics where he built automated pricing and decision support tools across several industries. Ben received a Ph.D. in Industrial Engineering, a M.S. in Operations Research, and a B.S. in Aerospace Engineering from the Georgia Institute of Technology. 

Ryan joined Roark in 2022. He was a Summer Senior Associate with Roark in summer 2021. Prior to joining Roark, Ryan was an Associate at Apollo Global Management. Before Apollo, Ryan was an Investment Banking Analyst at Bank of America Merrill Lynch. Ryan received a B.A. in Economics from Vanderbilt University and an MBA from The Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania.

John joined Roark in 2008 and is the Committee Chair of Roark's Responsible Investment Committee. He also serves on the board of directors of Fitness Connection, is actively involved in Roark's investment in Orangetheory and previously worked on Roark's prior investments in Solterra, GFL Environmental, Peachtree Business Products, Quala and Waste Pro. Prior to joining Roark, John was a Senior Associate in the transaction advisory services group at Ernst & Young. John received a Master of Accountancy and a BBA from the Terry College of Business at the University of Georgia.

Claude joined Roark in 2022 after having been a Summer Analyst with the firm in 2021. He received a B.S. in Commerce and a minor in Statistics from the University of Virginia.

Whitney joined Roark in 2023. Prior to joining Roark, Whitney worked at Lumina Autism Center as a Registered Behavior Technician. She also has previous experience working at Jabian LLC as an Executive Assistant and Office Coordinator. She received a MS in Psychology from Capella University and a BS of Psychology from Kennesaw State University.

Nick joined Roark in 2022 and is actively involved in designing and executing Roark’s data analytics initiatives. Prior to joining Roark, Nick worked as a Senior Manager at Kurt Salmon, part of Accenture Strategy. He delivered analytics-driven strategies and tools for retail and consumer product companies across growth, merchandising, inventory, pricing, and supply chain.

Nick received a B.S in Industrial Engineering and Finance from the Georgia Institute of Technology. 

Niel joined Roark in February of 2020. Prior to joining Roark, Niel was an IT Service Delivery Lead at Georgia Tech Research Institute, focusing on system implementation, project management, business analysis, and IT strategy.  Prior to Georgia Tech, Niel implemented Apparity, a spreadsheet monitoring and tracking tool for various investment banks. Niel received a B.A from Emory University.

Jared joined Roark in 2023 after working as a Summer Analyst in 2022. He received a BA in Economics and Medicine, Health, and Society from Vanderbilt University.

Mark joined Roark in 2013. He is actively involved in Roark’s investments in Divisions Maintenance Group and Nothing Bundt Cakes. Prior to joining Roark, he was a Senior Associate in the transaction advisory services group at Ernst & Young, where he focused primarily on business valuations. Prior to that, Mark worked in the Audit and Assurance Advisory Services group at Ernst & Young. Mark received an M.S. in Accountancy from the Carroll Graduate School of Management at Boston College and a B.S. from Auburn University. Mark is a CFA Charterholder.

Carrie joined Roark in 2021. She is a human resources professional with experience in recruiting, onboarding, benefits, employee engagement, and performance management. Prior to joining Roark, she worked as a Human Resources Analyst at Clarkston Consulting and as a Human Resources Associate - Talent Acquisition at Atrium Health.

Carrie received a Bachelor of Arts in Media and Journalism from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Angela joined Roark in 2023 after working as a Summer Analyst in 2022. She received a BA in Economics and Global Affairs from Yale University.

Wesley joined Roark in 2014. Prior to joining Roark, Wesley was a Senior Associate in the Assurance Services Group at Ernst & Young. Wesley received a Master of Accountancy and a B.S. in Business Administration from the University of Tennessee. Wesley is also a Certified Public Accountant.

Claudia joined Roark in 2019. Her legal responsibilities focus primarily on working with the portfolio companies on a wide range of operational and legal matters, including best practices and risk management. She also participates in Roark transactional, compliance, regulatory, and corporate governance matters. Prior to joining Roark, Claudia was Executive Vice President & Chief Legal Officer for Hooters of America, LLC where she was responsible for all legal matters, human resources, training, payroll, benefits, and risk management. Prior to Hooters, Claudia served as Chief Administrative Officer and General Counsel to Huddle House, Inc. where she managed the legal, real estate, and human resources departments. Before going in-house, Claudia was a commercial litigator in Washington, DC with Ginsburg, Feldman and Bress. Claudia received her B.A. from Pitzer College of the Claremont Colleges and her J.D. from George Washington University’s National Law Center. Claudia is a member of the Bar Association of the District of Columbia.

Mike joined Roark in 2023. Prior to joining Roark, he worked at Search Discovery as an Analyst. He received an M.S. in Business Analytics from the University of Southern California and a BBA in Marketing and International Business from the University of Georgia.

Jason joined Roark in June 2006. Prior to joining Roark, Jason owned and operated Lifeline Technology Services, a provider of network and IT consulting services to small- and medium-sized operations in the Atlanta area. Jason is responsible for telecom, networking, IT infrastructure and cybersecurity at Roark. Jason is an active member of InfraGard, International Information Systems Security Certification Consortium, and is a Certified Information Systems Security Professional. Jason was nominated for the 2014 Georgia CIO of the year award by the Georgia CIO Leadership Association. 

Louis joined Roark in 2021. Prior to joining Roark, Louis was a corporate lawyer with Sullivan & Cromwell LLP and Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP. Louis received his B.S. from Vanderbilt University and his J.D. from the University of Virginia School of Law. Louis is a member of the New York bar.

Abhishek joined Roark in 2022. Abhishek previously worked as an Investment Banking Summer Analyst at Evercore. He received a B.S. in Industrial Engineering from Georgia Institute of Technology.

Brennan joined Roark in 2021. He is actively involved in Roark’s investments in Fitness Connection and Pet Supermarket. Prior to joining Roark, Brennan worked as a Senior Associate at Sverica Capital Management and as an Associate Consultant at Bain & Company.

Brennan received a B.A. in Political Science from Davidson College and an MBA from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business.

TJ joined Roark in 2022. Prior to joining Roark, he worked as a Business Analyst at Deloitte Consulting LLP. He received a B.A. in Government from Georgetown University and B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from Columbia University.

Martin joined Roark in 2014. He is actively involved in Roark's investment in Driven Brands and previously worked on Roark's prior investments in Wingstop and Solterra. He also serves on the board of the non-profit Agape Youth and Family Center and as a Teaching Director for the Roark Investment Fellowship, a BLK Capital program. Prior to joining Roark, Martin worked as an investment banking analyst at Harris Williams & Co., where he focused on mergers and acquisitions across a variety of sectors. Martin received a B.S. in Accounting and Business Administration and a minor in Mathematics from Washington and Lee University.

Garett joined Roark in 2022. Garett was a Summer Analyst with Roark in summer 2021. He received a B.S. in Business Administration from Georgia Institute of Technology.

Dan joined Roark in 2020. Prior to joining Roark, Dan worked as a Finance Manager in Bain Capital's private equity business unit and as a Financial Services Organization Staff - Assurance, Wealth & Asset Management at Ernst & Young.

Dan received his Master of Science in Accountancy and Bachelor of Science in Financial Analysis and Accounting from the University at Albany, State University of New York. He is a Certified Public Accountant.

Codie joined Roark in 2023. Prior to joining Roark, Codie worked at Inspire Brands on Enterprise Engagement and Events. Prior to that, she worked at BBYO, an international non-profit, and at the Galt House Hotel as an Event Manager. She received her B.A. in Economics from the University of Massachusetts Amherst.

Ched joined Roark in 2019, having been a Summer Analyst in 2018. Ched previously worked with early-stage investor SeedInvest in New York City.  Ched graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill with a B.A. in Economics and Computer Science with a Minor in Business Administration.

Allie Smith joined Roark in 2023. Prior to joining Roark, Allie Smith worked at Wells Fargo as an Investment Banking Analyst on the Technology, Media, and Telecommunications team. She received a BS in Accounting and Computer Science from Washington and Lee University.

Erik joined Roark in 2007, is a member of Roark’s Investment Committee and currently serves as the Chief Investment Officer.  He has spent more than 20 years in private equity where he primarily focused on multi-location, consumer-oriented businesses.  Prior to joining Roark, Erik was a Partner at Grotech Capital Group, a private equity firm based in Baltimore, MD. Prior to joining Grotech, Erik worked in the investment banking division of Deutsche Bank and its predecessor entities, BT Alex. Brown, and Alex. Brown & Sons. Erik received a B.S. from the Kenan-Flagler School of Business at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. 

Sarah joined Roark in 2022. Prior to Roark, Sarah was an Investment Banking Analyst at Stephens. She received a BBA in Finance from the University of Georgia.

Max joined Roark in 2018 after having been a Summer Analyst in 2017.  He also serves as a Teaching Director for the Roark Investment Fellowship, a BLK Capital program.  He received a B.S. in Business with concentrations in economics and finance from NYU’s Stern School of Business.

Sam joined Roark in 2024. Prior to joining Roark, he worked at Ankura, where he was a Cyber Security Consultant. Prior to that, he worked at Cyber Defense International as a SOC Analyst. Sam received a Bachelor of Business Administration in Computer Information Systems with a concentration in Cyber Security from Georgia State University.

Caroline joined Roark in 2019. Prior to joining Roark, Caroline worked at PricewaterhouseCoopers, where she was a Senior Associate on the Capital Markets and Accounting Advisory Services team. Caroline received her Master of Science in Accounting from the University of Virginia and a B.S. in Accounting and Business Administration from Washington and Lee University.

Bert joined Roark in 2020 and is a member of Roark’s Responsible Investment Committee. Prior to joining Roark, Bert was Vice President of Logistics and Commercial Excellence at Vulcan Materials Company. While at Vulcan, Bert led Procurement, Rail Logistics, Truck Logistics, Logistics Innovations and Commercial Excellence, helping them build industry-leading capabilities across the materials supply chain. Prior to that, Bert worked at McKinsey & Company, working with clients on supply chain, procurement, strategy, sales and marketing and other operational areas. Bert received an M.B.A. from The Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania and a B.A. in English from Washington and Lee University. 

Basil joined Roark in 2021. Prior to joining Roark, he worked as a Private Equity Fundraising Analyst at Neuberger Berman and as a Data Analyst at eVestment.

Basil received a BBA in Finance from the University of Georgia.

Shelley joined Roark in 2023. Prior to joining Roark, Shelley was a Senior Tax Consultant in the Real Estate group at Deloitte Tax specializing in REIT Taxation. Shelley received a BBA in Finance from Mercer University. 

Helen joined Roark in 2020. Prior to Joining Roark, she was an Associate in the Assurance Services group at PwC. Helen received a Masters of Accountancy and a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of Arkansas. Helen is also a Certified Public Accountant.

Ian joined Roark as Managing Director and Chief Analytics Officer in 2021 and is a member of Roark’s Investment Committee. Ian is a technology investor and entrepreneur. Prior to joining Roark, Ian co-founded Two Six Capital, one of the first investment and operating firm using data science to create an advantage in the private equity investment and value creation process. Two Six Capital was acquired by West Monroe in 2020.

Ian also co-founded and was the sole investor in several ecommerce companies, including Bergine LLC (acquired by Gilt Groupe). Prior to that, Ian spent more than a decade in private equity and venture capital, investing across a wide range of industries with Technology Crossover Ventures, Vanguard Ventures and Telesoft Partners. Ian began his career at Morgan Stanley in private equity and investment banking groups.

Ian received an M.B.A. from The Wharton School and a B.A. in Engineering and Economics from Dartmouth College.

Jason joined Roark in 2020. He graduated from Georgia Tech with a B.S.B.A. concentrating in Finance and a minor in Engineering and Business. Jason interned at Point72 Asset Management and EY’s Financial Accounting Advisory Services group.

Shree joined Roark in 2022. Shree previously worked as an Investment Banking Summer Analyst at Guggenheim Securities. Shree received a B.S. in Finance from Rutgers University.

Sunil joined Roark in 2024. Prior to joining Roark, he held various leadership positions at Verizon Business and EY’s Technology Consulting practice. Prior to that, he worked at Toyota Motor Europe and the John Lewis Partnership (UK). Sunil currently serves as a Board Member for Illinois Business Consulting, part of the Gies College of Business at Univ. of Illinois. Sunil received a Master of Business Administration from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and a Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering from Coventry University (UK).

Lancelot joined Roark in 2016.  Prior to Roark he served as the IT Administrator, and later, IT Network Manager of Caribbean Alliance Insurance Company over a seven year period.  He holds certifications from Cisco, Microsoft & CompTIA.  He brings over 10 years of general IT knowledge and experience to the team. Lancelot is responsible for Help Desk services, Telecommunication Systems, Mobile Device Management and IT Infrastructure services at Roark.

Steven joined Roark in 2008 and transitioned from Managing Director to Senior Advisor in November 2019. He is on the board of directors of FOCUS Brands and Inspire Brands. Steven is the former Chairman of the International Franchise Association. Prior to joining Roark, Steven was CEO of FOCUS Brands. Prior to becoming CEO of FOCUS Brands, Steven served as President of Carvel Ice Cream. Under Steven's leadership, FOCUS Brands acquired Cinnabon in 2004, Schlotzsky's in 2006, and Moe's Southwest Grill in 2007. Prior to his tenure at FOCUS Brands, Steven was President and COO of USFS. Steven helped grow USFS from one brand with 22 hotels in nine states to three brands and more than 500 hotels open in 50 states and five countries. Prior to joining USFS, Steven was a Vice President at Holiday Inn Worldwide. There, he was responsible for franchise services, support, and training for 1,700 hotels in the United States, Canada, and the Caribbean, operating under the Holiday Inn and Crowne Plaza brands. He also led franchise sales, and during his tenure, Holiday Inn increased its franchise sales from 60 in 1991 to 300 franchises in 1995. From 1988 to 1991, Steven held various positions with Days Inn of America. Steven received a B.A. from Tufts University.

Julie joined Roark in June 2015.  Prior to Roark, she was a legal secretary for Kilpatrick Townsend & Stockton, Epstein Becker & Green and DLA Piper.  Julie received a B.S. from Georgia State University.

Ardian joined the Roark team in 2020. He joins from Deloitte Consulting, where he was an analyst aligned to Deloitte’s Strategy and Operations practice. Prior to Deloitte, Ardian taught 8th Grade Science as part of the non-profit Teach for America (TFA) program. He earned his B.S. from Cornell University, where he also lettered for the Varsity Football team.   

Ed joined Roark in 2013 after having been a Summer Analyst with Roark in 2012.  He is actively involved in Roark’s investments in Inspire Brands and CKE.  Ed received a B.S. in Commerce from the University of Virginia. 

Chris joined Roark in 2023. Prior to joining Roark, he was a Senior Auditor at Carr, Riggs & Ingram, LLC, where he specialized in financial statement and internal audits of national and community banks. Chris received a B.S. in Accounting, as well as a Master of Accountancy from the University of Georgia.

Jack joined Roark in 2023. He received a BA in Economics and History from Vanderbilt University.

Anthony joined Roark in 2004. Anthony is actively involved in Roark's investments in FOCUS Brands and Installation Made Easy. He is also Chairman of the Investment Advisory Committee of a non-profit institution, The Art Students League of New York. Prior to joining Roark, Anthony spent 15 years as a Managing Director at Oak Hill Advisors, Inc. and Oak Hill Partners, Inc. (and its predecessors), a large private equity and investment firm based in New York. Anthony has been involved in the purchase or oversight of more than 50 companies with an estimated value of more than $5 billion. Prior to joining Oak Hill, Anthony spent 17 years at the accounting firm of Arthur Young, most recently as a Partner in its mergers and acquisitions group. Anthony received a B.S. from Boston College and an M.B.A. from Columbia University.

Sam joined Roark in 2016. He is actively involved in Roark’s investments in Nothing Bundt Cakes and Massage Envy. He received a B.S. in Commerce and Mathematics from the University of Virginia. 

Mike joined Roark in 2007. He currently serves on the board of directors of Miller's Ale House, and was formerly on the board of Wingstop. He is actively involved in Roark's investments in Primrose Schools and Focus Brands. Mike received a BBA from the Goizueta Business School at Emory University.

Aaron joined Roark in 2021. Prior to joining Roark, Aaron was an Associate at Monomoy Capital Partners. Before Monomoy, Aaron worked at Bank of America in their Consumer & Retail Investment Banking group as well as their Debt Capital Markets group.

Aaron received a B.A. in Financial Economics from Columbia University.

Michael joined Roark in 2015. He serves on the board of directors of Youth Enrichment Brands and is actively involved in Roark's investment in Driven Brands. Michael received a BBA in Finance and Operations Management from the Goizueta Business School at Emory University and a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from the Georgia Institute of Technology.

Greg joined Roark in 2018 and is a member of Roark’s Investment Committee.  Prior to joining Roark, Greg was Managing Director, Global Head of Restaurant Coverage and Head of Southeast Region at Barclays.  Prior to Barclays, Greg was at Credit Suisse from 2006 to 2014, where he was a Managing Director responsible for covering clients in the consumer and retail industry and was the head of the Restaurant Investment Banking sector.  In his duties at Barclays and Credit Suisse, Greg worked across much of the Roark portfolio as a trusted advisor and lead provider of debt and equity financing in the capital markets.  Prior to joining Credit Suisse, Greg was a Managing Director at RBC Capital Markets from 2001 to early 2006, and at Prudential Securities from 1994 to 2001, covering the consumer products and retail industry.  Greg received a B.S. in Business Administration from Bucknell University. 

Sarah joined Roark in 2019 and is a member of Roark’s Investment Committee. She serves on the board of directors of FOCUS Brands, ServiceMaster Brands, CKE and US Sports Camps. Prior to joining Roark, she was the President and CEO of Coffee & Bagel Brands, which comprises Einstein Bros. Bagels, Caribou Coffee, Bruegger’s Bagels, Noah’s New York Bagels and Manhattan Bagel Company. She joined Coffee & Bagel Brands as the President of Einstein Bros. Bagels in 2015.  Prior to Coffee & Bagel Brands, Sarah served as Executive Vice President in the Portfolio Group at Bain Capital, where she partnered with leadership teams at consumer and retail brands (including Bloomin’ Brands, Dunkin’ Brands and Michaels Arts & Crafts) to build and execute growth strategies across all functions of the business. Prior to Bain Capital, Sarah was the Director of Strategy at The LEGO Group in Denmark. She started her career at McKinsey & Company in Washington, D.C. Sarah received an M.B.A. from Stanford’s Graduate School of Business and a B.A. from Princeton University.

Braxton joined Roark in 2022. He most recently worked at Boston Consulting Group, where he was an IT HR Business Analyst. Prior to that, he worked at Invisors as a Data & Analytics Consultant. Braxton received a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from the Georgia Institute of Technology.

Tess joined Roark in 2023. Prior to joining Roark, she was a benefits advisor for Aflac and a legal assistant for a civil litigation firm.

Kyle joined Roark in 2022. Prior to joining Roark, he was a Controller at RFA Management Company, a large single-family office in Atlanta. Previously, Kyle also worked as the Controller for Brown Integrated Logistics, a private equity backed company headquartered in East Atlanta. Kyle began his career in public accounting, starting off in financial statement audit at Grant Thornton and then worked in EY’s M&A consulting group.

Kyle received a Master of Professional Accountancy from Georgia State University and a B.S. in Finance from Bryan College. Kyle is a Certified Public Accountant.

Mike joined Roark in 2010 and is a member of Roark's Investment Committee. He serves on the board of directors of and is actively involved in Roark's investments in Divisions Maintenance Group, Driven Brands, Installation Made Easy, ServiceMaster Brands and Youth Enrichment Brands, and previously worked on Roark's prior investment in Atkins Nutritionals and Great Expressions Dental Centers. Prior to joining Roark, he worked at Montage Partners, a Phoenix-based private equity firm. Prior to Montage, Mike served as a Senior Associate at Kroll Zolfo Copper. Mike received an M.B.A. from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business and a B.A. from Pomona College.

Will joined Roark in 2024. Prior to joining Roark, Will worked for Everstream Analytics, Zero Grocery, and The Home Depot, where he used machine learning and data science methodologies to improve supply chain and operations. Will received a Master of Science in Computational Data Analytics from the Georgia Institute of Technology and a Bachelor of Business Administration in Information Systems & Operating Management and Finance from Emory University.

Clint joined Roark in 2023. Prior to Roark, Clint worked as a Service Desk Technician at Inline Plastics. Prior to that, he worked as a Help Desk Analyst at NCR Corporation and an Application Specialist at Virtucom.

Brett joined Roark in 2016. He is actively involved in Roark’s investments in Inspire Brands and Culver’s. He also serves as the Program Director of the Roark Investment Fellowship, a BLK Capital program, and as a member of the Leadership Council for Junior Achievement of Georgia. Prior to joining Roark, Brett worked as an analyst at Robert W. Baird & Co. in the firm’s Consumer Investment Banking Group. Brett received a B.A. in Economics and Political Science from the University of Notre Dame.

Juan joined Roark in 2023. Prior to joining Roark, Juan worked as a Manager at Treya Partners where he focused on strategic sourcing and procurement. Prior to that, Juan worked at Insight Sourcing Group where he supported their group purchasing programs and procurement projects. Juan received a BBA in Finance from Georgia State University.

Kevin joined Roark in 2021 upon graduating with an MBA from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business. He is actively involved in Roark's investments in Divisions Maintenance Group, Mathnasium and Self Esteem Brands. Prior to business school, Kevin worked at Norwest Equity Partners, where he was a Senior Associate. Prior to Norwest Equity Partners, Kevin worked at Lazard, where he was an Analyst in the Middle Market Advisory group. Kevin received a B.A. in Mathematics and Economics from Northwestern University.

Emilia joined Roark in 2020. She is a tax professional with previous experience in Big Four public accounting, specializing in partnership and REIT taxation. Prior to joining Roark, she worked as a Tax Manager at Ernst & Young.

Emilia received a Bachelor of Science in Commerce degree with a double major in Accounting and Finance from DePaul University. She is a Certified Public Accountant.

Elizabeth joined Roark in 2020. Prior to Roark, she was an Analyst with Accenture Consulting in the Strategy & Consulting practice working at the Atlanta Innovation Hub. Elizabeth received a B.S. in Business Administration and minors in Business, Law, and Ethics from the Georgia Institute of Technology. 

Sam joined Roark in 2013. He is actively involved in Roark's investments in Self Esteem Brands, Orangetheory Fitness and ServiceMaster Brands. Sam previously worked on Roark's prior investments in Quala, GFL Environmental and Waste Pro. Sam was an Analyst with Roark in the summer of 2012. Sam received a B.A. in Economics from Vanderbilt University.

Sophia joined Roark in 2023. Prior to Roark, Sophia worked as an Executive Assistant at Guggenheim Securities, Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co. (KKR) and Lindsay Goldberg. Sophia attended SUNY College at Old Westbury.

David joined Roark in 2019 and is a member of Roark’s Investment Committee. Prior to joining Roark, David was a Managing Director at Robert W. Baird & Co., where he was Co-Head of Baird’s Global Financial Sponsors Group and a member of the firm’s Investment Banking Management Committee. He served as Roark’s primary coverage officer and was a lead partner on several of Roark’s investments and exits. Prior to joining Baird in 1995, David spent five years at Coopers & Lybrand, primarily focused on corporate finance and mergers and acquisitions advisory assignments. David received a B.S. in Accounting from Valparaiso University. 

Lewis joined Roark in 2023. Prior to joining Roark, Lewis worked with the Workplace Experience team at Munich American Reassurance and as a Mortgage Office Administrator at PNC Bank. Lewis also worked as a Foreclosure Specialist with McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLC and as an Operations Asset Manager with Manley Deas & Kochalski LLC. Lewis received a B.A. in Political Science from The Ohio State University.

Dan joined Roark in 2023 after working as a Summer Senior Associate in 2022. Prior to joining Roark, Dan worked as a Private Equity Associate at The Carlyle Group and as an Investment Banking Analyst at BMO Capital Markets. Dan received a B.S. in Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering from Rice University and an MBA from The Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania.

Kimberly joined Roark in June 2006. Prior to Roark, she was an Accounts Payable Administrator for Dixie HomeCrafters/GutterGuard, LLC. Kimberly graduated from Georgia State University in 2004 with a BBA in Business Management.