BILL YOUSTRA

Bill Youstra is a highly respected and experienced investor, currently serving as a Managing Director at The Stephens Group, a prominent private equity firm based in Little Rock, Arkansas. His tenure at The Stephens Group, which he joined in 2006, has been marked by significant contributions to the firm's investment strategy and portfolio growth. As a key member of the investment team, Mr. Youstra plays a pivotal role in sourcing, evaluating, and executing new private equity investments, as well as providing strategic oversight to portfolio companies.

At The Stephens Group, Bill Youstra's investment focus is primarily on middle-market companies with strong management teams and significant growth potential. He has a keen eye for businesses operating within sectors such as industrial products and services, business services, consumer products, and technology. His expertise lies in identifying companies that can benefit from strategic capital, operational enhancements, and market expansion, helping them achieve their next phase of growth and value creation. He works closely with management teams to develop and implement long-term strategic plans, optimize operations, and explore new market opportunities.

Before joining The Stephens Group, Mr. Youstra honed his financial and investment acumen through a robust career trajectory. He previously worked within the Private Equity Group at Stephens Inc., the investment banking division, where he gained valuable experience in deal origination and analysis. Prior to his time at Stephens Inc., he was a part of the Investment Banking division at J.P. Morgan, a global financial services leader. These foundational experiences provided him with a comprehensive understanding of corporate finance, mergers and acquisitions, and capital markets, which he now applies to his private equity endeavors.

Bill Youstra's academic background further underpins his professional success. He earned his Master of Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Texas at Austin, a testament to his commitment to advanced business education. He also holds a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Finance from the University of Arkansas. His educational foundation, combined with his extensive practical experience, makes him a well-rounded and insightful investor.

Throughout his career, Bill Youstra has been involved in numerous notable investments and has served on the boards of several portfolio companies, providing strategic guidance and oversight. His board memberships have included companies such as Core & Main (formerly HD Supply Waterworks), Catalyst Acoustics Group, and Pearlman Group, among others. These roles underscore his commitment to actively partnering with management teams to drive value and ensure the long-term success of the businesses in which The Stephens Group invests. His leadership and strategic insights are highly valued by the companies he works with, making him a trusted advisor in the private equity landscape.