Who We Are
Story
After years of working in manufacturing across various industries, I had the opportunity to experience firsthand how different ownership structures impact a company’s culture, decision-making, and long-term success. Whether it was the relentless quarter-end push of public companies, the short-term focus of private equity firms limiting long-term investments, or the legacy-driven stewardship of a third-generation family business, one lesson became clear—there are no shortcuts. Building a healthy, sustainable company requires a long-term mindset and decisions that prioritize people and growth over immediate returns. With this belief, we founded Cotton Bay as an alternative for business owners—a firm rooted in the philosophy that companies thrive when they invest in their people. As a family-owned business with no outside equity investors, we have the freedom to take a patient, long-term approach without the pressure of maximizing short-term returns or planning an exit strategy. Our goal is simple: to create lasting value by fostering a strong, people-first culture that drives sustainable success to carry companies through their next generation.
Andrew Olsen.
What we care about
It’s not easy. It’s not quick. We can only grow ahead by relying on our values:
Respect your roots
Carrying forward the legacy of our brands
Put it together
Connecting the critical dots to advance
Ignite progress
Empowered to do what makes sense
Let’s grow!
Excited and curious to realize our potential
What we do
We carry businesses forward. We do this through building people. Because they’re the ones that make these companies succeed. Our purpose is to breathe life into everyone and everything we touch and seek opportunities by connecting critical dots in order to advance.
How we do it
When you have the privilege to acquire a business that has been with a family for 30, 40 years or even longer, the company must be doing something right, so our job at Cotton Bay is to ensure you don't screw it up. We focus on getting to know the people, processes and partners to understand the history and way of operating to take the time and build a future roadmap to grow in a healthy manner.
Who we are
We’re a team of teams. Our Cotton Bay team partners with the leadership of each company we guide. When they lead their own teams well, amazing things happen. I credit so much of our success to our own leadership team. You should meet them:
Andrew Olsen
CEO, Cotton Bay Corp.
Strategic focused executive with a career specializing in business transformation within the manufacturing and distribution sectors. He has excelled in diverse roles spanning finance, operations, and business development across capital structures, including heavily leveraged private equity-backed enterprises and Fortune 50 companies. Andrew’s career highlights include successfully steering a $500 million aerospace firm through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic as CFO. He also led the transformation of a decentralized global industrial equipment company, achieving a remarkable growth from $160 million in revenue with 9% EBITDA to $310 million with 16.9% EBITDA. Additionally, as CFO/COO, Andrew successfully executed the roll-up and integration of two private equity-backed food businesses valued at $14 million and $28 million. He holds a Bachelor's degree in Management and Marketing from Canisius College, an Executive MBA from the University at Buffalo, and is in the midst of a Master’s in Change Management from Oxford University and HEC Paris.
Peter Banat
CFO, Cotton Bay Corp.
Peter is a seasoned Chief Financial Officer with extensive expertise in finance, operations, and strategic planning. His career spans leadership roles in global manufacturing, consumer products, and private equity-backed companies, including Bay State Milling, Evenflo, and Euro-Pro Operating LLC. Peter specializes in acquisitions, financial restructuring, ERP implementations, and improving profitability through strategic initiatives. A results-driven leader, he has successfully navigated complex challenges, such as debt restructuring and turnarounds, while fostering growth. Peter holds an MBA in Finance and International Business from the University of Michigan and a BA in Economics from the University of Pennsylvania.
Joanna Pedroza
VP People & Culture, Cotton Bay Corp.
Joanna is an accomplished HR leader with extensive experience in employee experience, organizational development, and strategic HR initiatives across industries. She has held senior roles at organizations such as The Museum of Modern Art, Ralph Lauren, and Bloomingdale’s, where she excelled in performance development, diversity and inclusion initiatives, and crisis management. Joanna has successfully implemented comprehensive HR programs, led large teams, and managed complex workforce strategies, showcasing expertise in talent management, employee engagement, and policy development. She holds a double major in Human Resources and Management from Rider University and is currently advancing her knowledge through the Chief Human Resources Program at The Wharton School.
Ashley Moreira
General Manager, Candlelight Cabinetry.
Focuses on customer experience, productivity, and efficiency. Holds an MBA and Lean Six Sigma Black Belt. Experienced in industrial automation, food, and apparel industries with a strong emphasis on team building and process improvement.
Gabriele Balduzzi
General Manager, Valen Europe.
Grew company revenue significantly while modernizing operations. Background in economics and finance, with experience in IT and roles ranging from Quality Manager to General Manager.
Chris Lefeber
VP Product, Building Products, Cotton Bay Corp.
Innovator in panel processing and woodworking, with a focus on design and process efficiency. Drives growth in the kitchen, bath, and closet industry through innovation.
Mike Welch
General Manager, Valen USA.
Mike has 25+ years experience in cabinet and wood component manufacturing. Recognized as an industry pioneer in wood powder coating. Excels in operational excellence, strategic planning, and team building.
Jeff Stone
General Manager, Stone Marketing Consultants.
Business development executive with 30+ years in sales management for the kitchen and bath industry. Expertise in dealer-cabinet manufacturer relationships and sales team training. Former VP of Sales at RD Henry and president of a consulting agency.
Thomas Day
VP Strategy Building Products, Cotton Bay Corp.
Experienced in cabinetry and decorative products. A consultative leader passionate about connecting consumer needs with product solutions. Skilled in sales, marketing, and building strategic partnerships, with a focus on integrity and service.
Our Communities
Our legacies are always tied to a place–and the people who live there. We believe those bonds shouldn't be broken. Instead, we invest in those communities. That means new and remodeled buildings and up-to-date equipment. It also means celebrating with the local community through fairs, festivals, and fireworks. The pull of these revitalized communities is so strong, we've heard stories of grandparents moving back to places they left just to be closer to their grandkids. That's a legacy we're proud of.
