New Searcher - Looking in Chicago and PA/NJ/NY across consumer industries

searcher profile

September 09, 2024

by a searcher from Northwestern University - Kellogg School of Management in Chicago, IL, USA

Hi Everyone - I'm new to the search world and looking to make connections as I get acclimated.

A little bit about me - I have 10 years of experience in strategy, marketing, and operations across several consumer/retail companies (Pepsi, Albertsons, a few startups and a VC) plus management consulting at Bain. I've always dreamed of running my own business and am about ready to make the leap.

Would love to connect with folks in the search community, particularly:

- in Chicago area or PA/NJ/NY tristate area (my geo focus)

- those involved in deals in the consumer world - goods, services, retail, etc. (my industry focus based on my background and what I love to do - I know this is a less common path so appreciate any advice here)

- fellow women

Please feel free to reach out here, by email redacted or via LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/claire-fitzpatrick###-###-#### /). Any and all advice/connections are appreciated!


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commentor profile
Reply by a searcher
from Pennsylvania State University in Brooklyn, NY, USA
10 years in CPG here - consumer deals are harder to come by but possible. Tap into the network you already have/know about. Some of your best leads won't be the consumer brands themselves but the entire ecosystem around the brand - marketing or design agencies, brokerage firms, packaging/printing companies, ingredient suppliers, etc. Accelerators, trade shows, and VC firms were my best leads. Try to connect with corporate development/M&A folks at large brands - Mars, Pepsi, Nestle, Mills, etc. - there's always a business unit they are looking to offload as consumer preferences change. Good luck!
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Reply by a lender
from Eastern Illinois University in 900 E Diehl Rd, Naperville, IL 60563, USA
Welcome to the community. I am from Chicago as well. Happy to connect if you ever need any assistance from a financing perspective. You can reach me here or directly at redacted
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