about us
processes and procedures specifically designed for private equity groups and their portcos
Grounded in nearly two decades of first hand experience within PE Ops, Black Creek has developed a unique, multi-faceted strategy for the management of cyber risk of PEG PortCos. We pride ourselves in our ability to translate the disparate tech. stacks, risk profiles and cultures commonly found across a portfolio into a common language and reporting a PEG can use. Our focus is on portfolios built of small businesses, often without a dedicated in-house security function.
When it comes to dealing with those cybersec. vendors we sit squarely on the side of the PEG and PortCo. We never take a commission from them and we make sure they never sell you something that you don’t need.
Not only do we understand how PE deal teams think and the challenges they face, we also understand how management teams of small, founder-led businesses struggle with myriad competing priorities, which creates a practical limit to how much mindshare cyber can get. This is why we believe that cybersecurity is a marathon, not a sprint. It’s not as much about how solid processes and tools are at a single point in time as it is about staying informed and continuously improving.
By understanding the unique challenges that small businesses face, we can develop practical solutions that work for these companies, improving their cybersecurity posture over time to raise them all above the “Cyber Security Poverty Line”.
Managing partner
brad strahorn
With almost two decades of experience in Private Equity operations, Brad has successfully deployed cybersecurity models at over 45 unique PortCos under one umbrella with a PE firm. With a reputation as a “truth teller” among his clients, he deeply understands what it takes to keep businesses secure. In addition, he has conducted evaluations of more than 20 cyber providers in five major categories to date, ensuring that his clients have access to the best and most up-to-date cybersecurity solutions available.
His career includes five years in operations and product development with Danaher Corporation and an MBA from the Kellogg School of Management, class of 2001. His former employer, Thompson Street Capital Partners, is Black Creek’s anchor client, serving as a baseline intelligence network to leverage and improve with other new, essential clients.
Based in St. Louis, Missouri, Brad is passionate about managed growth, limiting onboarding to just 2-3 additional PE shops each year.
get in touch
Have questions about how we can help you improve cybersecurity across your Private Equity Group and portfolio of companies? Contact us to learn more about how Black Creek can help.