#United States #New York #LSS Strategic Partners #ECB STAR Group #Pre-Deal Services

ECB STAR Group Launches U.S. Pre-Deal Practice

On January 21, 2026, ECB STAR Group, an esteemed executive search and leadership advisory firm part of LSS Strategic Partners, publicly announced the introduction of its U.S. Pre-Deal practice. This new initiative is designed to provide comprehensive support for private capital stakeholders during every phase of the investment lifecycle.

Headquartered in New York, the practice will be spearheaded by Sohil Patel, who transitions from Spencer Stuart. Patel aims to build and lead the Global Pre-Deal business unit, bringing a wealth of industry knowledge to the organization. With more than a decade of experience in consulting, private equity advisory, and executive search, he will play a crucial role in reinforcing the firm's capabilities within this sector.

The Importance of Pre-Deal Services

ECB STAR Group's Pre-Deal offerings are intended to assist investors as they navigate from the initial market assessments and due diligence stages through to deal execution and portfolio hiring. By connecting private equity sponsors with seasoned operators and high-level advisors, the firm ensures that decision-makers can solidify their confidence in investment choices. Additionally, this practice aids in aligning leadership with the strategic value-creation plans that are critical before and after the closure of a deal.

Sohil Patel articulates the vision for Pre-Deal services succinctly: "Pre-Deal is about clarity and access at the moments that matter most. We are dedicated to connecting sponsors with established, board-ready C-suite executives, allowing them to collaborate with deal teams from the onset. This brings valuable operational insights into the diligence process and enhances understanding of where value can be generated, potential risks involved, and key talent needs."

The Growing Need for Enhanced Diligence

As the investment landscape becomes increasingly competitive, the need for sophisticated pre-deal analysis is evident. Nick Alvarez, Managing Director at Alvarez & Marsal, commented on the introduction of the pre-deal capability, emphasizing its significance. "Sponsors are now more than ever focusing on how they can ensure value creation post-close. This launch allows ECB STAR Group to directly link insights from the pre-deal phase to actionable execution strategies, enhancing decision-making and facilitating immediate impact post-acquisition."

Comprehensive Services Offered

ECB STAR Group’s Pre-Deal services encompass a variety of essential functions:

1. Executive Network Building: This provides curated access to proven executives and advisers, which is critical for due diligence efforts, targeted strategic initiatives, board appointments, and operational assignments. All engagements are confidential and focused entirely on the client's desired outcomes.

2. Target Mapping and Management Access: The firm systematically identifies priority targets and facilitates warm introductions to senior leadership. In some cases, they also provide executive-led deal sourcing to enhance partnership opportunities.

3. Leadership Assessment: This involves discreet and independent evaluations of management teams, helping to inform due diligence and post-acquisition planning. They benchmark leadership teams against similar peer groups and past transactions, ensuring accurate comparisons and better strategic insights.

The Central Role of Talent in Value Creation

Darin DeWitt, Managing Partner for Executive Search at ECB STAR Group, underlined the importance of optimal talent acquisition: "Talent remains one of the most significant drivers of value creation. For investors, grasping the right talent dynamics from the outset is crucial to success. We are thrilled to welcome Sohil as the head of our Global Pre-Deal practice; his insights will undoubtedly aid our clients in proactively evaluating and optimizing leadership strategies to unlock value sooner in the investment timeline."

About ECB STAR Group

Founded with a commitment to delivering customized leadership solutions, ECB STAR Group specializes in executive, C-suite, and board placements across diverse industries, including private equity and corporate leadership. The firm utilizes a data-driven methodology and extensive industry expertise to aid clients in building high-performing teams that propel growth and drive long-term success. As a company under LSS Strategic Partners, ECB is poised for continued innovation and industry leadership in executive search and talent management.