Mergers & Acquisitions names the 2021 Rising Stars of Private Equity, including Huron Capital’s Michael Zukas.
Firm Roots
Huron Capital’s Zukas has repeatedly shown a unique combination of skills as a dealmaker, according to managing partner Jim Mahoney. Zukas has worked on major deals with Huron portfolio investments, including WD Lab Grown Diamonds, Horsepower Automotive Group and Valentus Specialty Chemicals. He also worked continuously to safely execute transactions under the duress of the pandemic. Known at the firm for his consistent work, Zukas is particularly recognized for his ability to develop relationships.
“In addition to top notch finance skills, Mike is highly driven, ambitious, and hard-working with unquestionable integrity,” Mahoney told Mergers & Acquisitions. “He exemplifies Huron Capital’s Midwestern roots and approach and as such, has a unique ability to connect and build rapport with business owners. With M&A activity at an unprecedented level, Mike is working creatively to find opportunities on both the buyside and sellside having worked recently on 1 exit, 1 strategic divestiture, a transformational add-on and is currently pursuing a couple of high priority platform investments.”
ESG Transparency
Zukas lead efforts at Huron to make environmental, social and governance (ESG) goals into tangible standards. WD lab Grown is the first diamond company to receive third-party certification as a “Certified Sustainable Rated” and “Certified Climate Neutral” label for their diamonds. By managing the day-to-day activities of Huron’s investment in WD, Zukas helped the company develop and drew attention to this opportunity. His work with the company demonstrated the growth potential and necessity of this category of standards. “Bare minimum compliance just does not cut it anymore,” he said. “Customers are increasingly demanding full ESG transparency and beyond that, want to know how a company’s approach to ESG makes it unique and enduring.”
Communication Skills
“While there are some issues that are unique to a particular portfolio company, many issues businesses face as the world begins to open are not that unique,” Zukas said. “One of the ways I help Huron Capital’s portfolio companies is to ensure knowledge sharing across the portfolio.” Zukas’ communication skills and understanding of information flow are a significant factor in his efforts to guide Huron investments in this period of transition.
