How to Buy a Carve-Out Business | Caroline Chapdelaine Interview

Equity Division

Caroline Chapdelaine's journey into business ownership involved a strategic division of equity among her partners. The chief scientist insisted on being the majority shareholder, having spent decades making others wealthy. Caroline, despite holding a minority share, was driven by the opportunity to lead and work with a talented team. She reflects on the partnership, noting, "We were kind of forced into this partnership, all three of us, because this deal couldn't happen without each other." 1 2

   

Role Management

Navigating roles within the company, Caroline emphasizes the importance of collaboration and the value of having a strong team. Initially, she was determined to go solo but soon realized the benefits of teamwork. "In every step of every journey, you need people along the way," she acknowledges. 3 Her role involves managing customer and vendor relationships, while her partner, the head scientist, handles the technical aspects. Despite the challenges of remote management, she finds the arrangement manageable and fulfilling. 4 5