Mergers & Acquisitions names the 2022 Most Influential Women in Mid-Market M&A, including Argand Partner’s Heather Faust.

How did you further your firm’s ESG goals?

During 2021, Argand became a signatory to the United Nations-supported Principles for Responsible Investment. I spearheaded this initiative to affirm our existing commitment to be responsible and active private equity owners, and ESG factors into our firm’s investment analysis, decision making processes, and ownership practices.

During our ownership, we aim to improve on existing practices, policies and procedures to increase the sustainability and long-term value of our companies, while working to ensure equitable treatment for stakeholders and the communities in which we operate.

How are you a champion of diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI)?

During 2021, Argand became a signatory to the Institutional Limited Partners Association (ILPA) Diversity in Action initiative. The ILPA Diversity in Action initiative brings together limited partners and general partners who share a commitment to advancing DEI in the private equity industry. I wanted Argand to become a signatory to affirm our fundamental belief that diversity of all kinds creates value. We have built our team and culture to create a diverse and inclusive working environment that encourages, respects and considers the unique perspectives of each individual in decision making and that fosters constructive debate.

Our experience shows us that diversity of background, experience and thought is a positive contributor to team performance and investment excellence. This is a core tenet of the composition of our firm, which is women- and minority-owned, and of our portfolio company management teams and boards, which include men and women of many different backgrounds and ethnicities.