Aterian Partners distinguishes itself in the competitive private equity landscape through the strength and depth of its team. Each member brings a wealth of experience, expertise, and a shared commitment to driving value creation. From seasoned co-founders to dynamic associates, the Aterian Partners team is united by a collaborative spirit and a dedication to achieving exceptional results. This article introduces the key individuals who form the backbone of Aterian Partners, highlighting their backgrounds and contributions to the firm’s success in the private equity sector.
The Founders and Partners of Aterian Partners
Brandon Bethea, Co-Founder & Partner
Brandon Bethea is a Co-Founder and Partner at Aterian Investment Partners, playing a crucial role on the firm’s Investment Committee. Mr. Bethea has built a distinguished career in private equity, spanning over two decades since 2000. His journey in private equity began after his tenure in Salomon Smith Barney’s investment banking division, leading him to roles as a Principal with Insight Equity and an investment professional with Freeman Spogli & Co. This rich and varied experience laid the foundation for his pivotal role at Aterian Partners.
Beyond his contributions to Aterian Partners, Mr. Bethea dedicates his time to community service, serving on the Endowment Committee of Christ Church in Pelham, New York since 2015. His academic achievements include an AB from Harvard University, where he was a member of the Varsity Men’s Tennis Team, demonstrating his commitment to excellence both in academics and athletics. He further honed his business acumen by earning an MBA from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University. Originally from Oklahoma, Brandon’s passion extends to his favorite sports team, the Oklahoma Sooners.
Michael Fieldstone, Co-Founder & Partner
Michael Fieldstone stands as a Partner at Aterian Investment Partners and is an integral member of the Investment Committee. With over 20 years dedicated to private equity investing, Mr. Fieldstone brings extensive knowledge and a proven track record to the firm. Before co-founding Aterian in 2009, his career included significant positions such as Principal at Sun Capital Partners, where he was actively involved in diverse investment scenarios including family/founder transitions, corporate carve-outs, restructurings, and growth initiatives. Prior to Sun Capital, he served as a Principal at Apollo Management, contributing to investment diligence, acquisitions, and portfolio monitoring. His professional journey began at Salomon Smith Barney in the Mergers and Acquisitions Investment Banking group, providing him with a strong foundation in finance.
Mr. Fieldstone’s academic credentials include a Bachelor of Science in Economics from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, a testament to his rigorous training in finance and economics. A Miami native, and a fan of the Miami Hurricanes, Michael now dedicates his personal time to family, particularly enjoying time with his young children.
Christopher Thomas, Co-Founder & Partner
Christopher Thomas is a Co-Founder and Partner at Aterian Investment Partners, and also serves on the Investment Committee, bringing over 20 years of experience in both transactional and operational aspects of private equity. His expertise spans a wide range of investment opportunities, from growth-oriented ventures to complex situations requiring strategic solutions. Prior to Aterian Partners, Mr. Thomas was a Principal at Sun Capital Partners, where he focused primarily on investments within the chemical, industrial, and consumer products sectors, in both public and private markets. His career foundation was built in the Investment Banking group at Oppenheimer in New York, where he was involved in numerous corporate transactions and financings.
Mr. Thomas graduated cum laude from The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, highlighting his academic excellence. Originally from Miami, Chris enjoys spending his leisure time fishing and engaging in DIY projects at home with his wife and three children, reflecting his balanced approach to both professional rigor and personal interests.
Managing Directors at Aterian Partners
Joshua Ciampa, Managing Director
Joshua Ciampa serves as a Managing Director at Aterian Investment Partners, where he is actively involved in critical areas such as deal sourcing, transaction due diligence, and portfolio company management. Mr. Ciampa has been a private equity investor since 2010, building a robust career in the field. Before joining Aterian, he was an Investment Professional at First Atlantic Capital, where he played a key role in the firm’s investments across packaging, industrials, and business services sectors. His earlier experience includes a five-year tenure at GE Capital within the Sponsor Finance and Antares lending platforms, where he also completed GE’s prestigious Financial Management Program.
Mr. Ciampa’s educational background is marked by academic excellence. He graduated cum laude from Boston University with a BS in Business Administration and a BA in Philosophy, showcasing a diverse academic foundation. He furthered his education by earning an MBA from Columbia Business School, enhancing his business and financial expertise.
Ryan Miller, Managing Director
Ryan Miller is a Managing Director at Aterian Investment Partners, contributing significantly to sourcing, transaction due diligence, underwriting, and portfolio company activities. Mr. Miller has been active in private equity investing since 2003, demonstrating long-term commitment and expertise in the field. Prior to joining Aterian, he held Managing Director positions at Dunes Point Capital and Lindsay Goldberg, adding to his extensive experience. He began his career in investment banking at Donaldson Lufkin & Jenrette and Lehman Brothers.
Mr. Miller holds a Bachelor of Science in Accountancy with a Minor in Technology Management from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, and an MBA from the Harvard Business School, underscoring his strong educational foundation. Growing up in the Chicagoland area, Ryan is a passionate supporter of Chicago sports teams, with the exception of the Cubs, adding a personal touch to his professional profile.
Principals at Aterian Partners
Jorge Fabre, Principal
Jorge Fabre is a Principal at Aterian Investment Partners, focusing on due diligence, underwriting, and portfolio management. Before joining Aterian, Mr. Fabre was an Analyst in the Mergers & Acquisitions group at Wells Fargo Securities, where he gained experience across various industries.
Mr. Fabre earned a B.S. in Finance from the Warrington School of Business at the University of Florida. Originally from the Dominican Republic but raised in Central Florida, Jorge follows Orlando Magic basketball.
Jay Taunk, Principal
Jay Taunk serves as a Principal at Aterian Investment Partners, focusing on sourcing, transaction due diligence, underwriting, and portfolio management. Mr. Taunk’s experience in private equity dates back to 2013, and prior to joining Aterian, he worked with SK Capital Partners and Radial Equity Partners.
He received his B.S. in Finance from The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and is based in Aterian’s Florida office, enhancing the firm’s presence in the region.
Senior Associate at Aterian Partners
Carlos Sanchez, Senior Associate
Carlos Sanchez is a Senior Associate at Aterian Investment Partners, contributing to due diligence, underwriting, and portfolio management. Before joining Aterian, Mr. Sanchez was an Associate at Quad-C Management, concentrating on business services and food & beverage investments. He started his career in the Communications, Media, and Entertainment Investment Banking Group at RBC Capital Markets.
Carlos graduated magna cum laude from the University of Puerto Rico with a B.S. in Industrial Engineering. In his leisure time, Carlos enjoys Formula 1 and exploring new restaurants.
Associates at Aterian Partners
Reeves Balderson, Associate
Reeves Balderson is an Associate at Aterian Investment Partners, involved in due diligence, underwriting, and portfolio management. Prior to Aterian, Mr. Balderson was an Investment Banking Associate on the Leveraged Finance team at BMO Capital Markets, working on leveraged buyouts, M&A, and refinancing across various sectors.
Reeves graduated cum laude from the University of Michigan, Ross School of Business with a BBA. He enjoys trying new restaurants, supporting Philadelphia and Michigan sports teams, and traveling.
Bobby Crawford, Associate
Bobby Crawford is an Associate at Aterian Investment Partners, focusing on due diligence, underwriting, and portfolio management. Before Aterian, Mr. Crawford was an Associate at Audax Private Equity, and began his career in the Consumer practice at EY-Parthenon.
Bobby received a B.A. in Computer Science and a Minor in Spanish Language & Literature from Dartmouth College. In his free time, Bobby enjoys rollerblading and plans to get boating and scuba licenses.
Matthew Currier, Associate
Information for Matthew Currier is coming soon.
Ryan Fuchs, Associate
Ryan Fuchs is an Associate at Aterian Investment Partners, assisting in due diligence, underwriting, and portfolio management. Prior to Aterian, Mr. Fuchs was a Private Equity Associate at CORE Industrial Partners, focusing on industrial services, and previously in Chemicals Investment Banking at Piper Sandler.
Ryan received a B.S. in Finance from Siena College. He enjoys fitness, traveling, and supporting the Minnesota Vikings.
Hunter Huseby, Associate
Hunter Huseby is an Associate at Aterian Investment Partners, contributing to due diligence, underwriting, and portfolio management. Before Aterian, Mr. Huseby was an Analyst in the Financial Sponsors Group at KeyBanc Capital Markets, working across Industrials and Business Services.
Hunter received a B.S. in Finance and a Master’s in International Business from the University of Florida. He enjoys live music, fitness, golf, international travel, and supporting the Gators and Yankees.
Marvin Leveille, Associate
Marvin Leveille is an Associate at Aterian Investment Partners, involved in due diligence, underwriting, and portfolio management. Prior to Aterian, Mr. Leveille was an analyst on the Leveraged Finance Team at Wells Fargo Securities, with experience in Industrials, Consumer & Retail, and Business Services.
Marvin received a B.S. in Economics and a Minor in Business Administration from Florida A&M University. He enjoys family time and supporting the Miami Heat & Dolphins.
Nolan O’Rear, Associate
Nolan O’Rear is an Associate at Aterian Investment Partners, focusing on due diligence, underwriting, and portfolio management. Before joining Aterian, Mr. O’Rear was an Investment Banking Analyst at D.A. Davidson, specializing in sell-side M&A in aerospace & defense, building products, and machinery & equipment.
Mr. O’Rear received a B.S. in Accounting and Finance from Northern Illinois University. Nolan is a former member of the U.S. national karate team and enjoys practicing karate.
Conclusion
The team at Aterian Partners represents a diverse and highly skilled group of professionals dedicated to excellence in private equity. Their collective experience across various industries and financial disciplines positions Aterian Partners as a formidable force in the investment world. The leadership of the Co-Founders and Partners, combined with the expertise of the Managing Directors, Principals, and Associates, creates a robust and dynamic team capable of navigating the complexities of the market and delivering strong results for their partners and portfolio companies. Aterian Partners’ commitment to a collaborative and experienced team underscores their dedication to creating lasting value and achieving success in the private equity sector.
