Mergers & Acquisitions names the 2021 Rising Stars of Private Equity, including TA Associates’ Amara Suebsaeng.
Relationships Matter
“The current market for deals is ultra-competitive, which makes it increasingly difficult to win or find proprietary opportunities, particularly high-growth and high-quality businesses that TA targets,” Suebsaeng told Mergers & Acquisitions. “To address this challenge, I look for situations where relationships matter and where the management team is looking for a partner with a clear point-of-view on the industry and value creation strategies. I focus on data, technology-enabled and IP-driven services companies where we see potential for outsized growth both organically and through M&A.” The strategy has proven effective, winning Suebsaeng a promotion from senior vice president to principal in 2020.
Sector Expertise
“Amara has used creativity and hustle to source and complete several high-quality, proprietary deals,” managing director Michael Berk told Mergers & Acquisitions. “Her persuasive communication skills and ability to build trust with founders have proven to be true difference makers. In addition, Amara’s patience, judgement and deep sector expertise have made her a favorite advisor and resource to her portfolio companies.”
Suebsaeng has been active in 2021, leading TA’s June investment in Stackline, a Seattle-based company that builds subscription-based e-commerce tools for thousands of consumer brands and retailers. She also co-sponsored TA’s investment in Backstage, a global marketplace connecting talent and content creators. TA’s investment supported the company’s acquisition of two add-on deals, and more are expected.
ESG and DEI Leadership
Across the firm’s portfolio, TA looks to promote environmental, social and governance practices. “One example is my portfolio company PurposeBuilt Brands, which offers category-leading, efficacy-driven specialty cleaning and disinfection brands serving consumer and commercial end-markets,” Suebsaeng explained. “The company seeks to be ‘green’ not only via its product portfolio, but also in its manufacturing practices.” The company received the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Safer Choice Partner of the Year Award in 2020.
Suebsaeng serves on TA’s committee on diversity, equity and inclusion. She has also helped lead TA’s recruiting efforts in prior years. “We look to recruit associates with diverse backgrounds, and we provide the training and mentorship to help them advance their careers in private equity,” she said. “With my portfolio companies, I focus on recruiting and hiring diverse candidates for both the board and management teams.”
