The Riverside Company, a global private investor firm focused on the smaller end of the middle market, has appointed Allison Cole as managing director and global head of fundraising and investor relations.

Cole will lead Riverside’s expansion of the global fundraising and investor relations team. In addition, Cole will work to build Riverside’s relationships with investors and oversee the firm’s capital raising efforts.

Cole brings over 20 years of financial experience in spearheading private equity fundraising, investor relations and communications efforts. Before joining Riverside, Cole was managing director, head of fundraising & investor relations at Lightyear Capital LLC.

“I’m thrilled to be joining Riverside, an exceptional firm with a highly experienced and talented team,” said Cole. “I am committed to deepening our engagement with our LPs and expanding Riverside’s relationships across the global investor community.”