Lazear Capital Partners (Lazear), a leading investment bank specializing in middle-market ownership transitions through Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs) and M&A advisory, is pleased to announce its role as the exclusive advisor to Richard Heath & Associates, Inc. (RHA) in its sale to Resource Innovations (RI), a prominent provider of energy solutions.
Based in Fresno, California, RHA has a 45-year history of providing underserved communities with equitable access to energy efficiency, energy resilience, and public health-related services. The acquisition strengthens RI’s position in energy equity, expanding its team to over 1,100 professionals and broadening capabilities in energy storage and resiliency, water conservation, community engagement, and workforce development.
Cynthia Rafferty, former CEO of RHA and now President of RI, reflected on the journey, stating, “As we navigated the sale of our business for the first time, Lazear provided invaluable guidance, ensuring we understood every step of the process. Their team’s expertise and leadership helped us make informed decisions and transition confidently while staying true to the legacy we built.”
Joe Laroche and Steve Deis, managing directors at Lazear, led the transaction, guiding RHA through the sale process to RI.
Joe shared, “It was a privilege to advise RHA on this important transition, which underscores the growing value of mission-driven businesses. Our goal was to ensure they found a partner who aligned with their business strategy and shared their deep commitment to making a positive social impact. This partnership marks a significant milestone for RHA, and we are honored to have played a role in securing their future.”
Steve added, “With deep roots in the Fresno community, I’ve seen firsthand the impact RHA has had, and this partnership with RI will only strengthen and expand that legacy.”
Click here to read the official acquisition announcement.
About Lazear
Headquartered in Columbus, OH, with a nationwide presence, Lazear is a premier middle-market advisory firm specializing in business ownership transitions. Since 1999, the firm has remained dedicated to helping business owners maximize wealth and preserve legacies through customized exit strategies, including ESOPs, M&A, and capital formation.
To learn more, visit www.lazearcapital.com and follow Lazear on LinkedIn.
Media Contact
Katherine Koon
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kk@lazearcapital.com
614-502-1411
