Kevin Seiberlich, managing director, Optimus Financial Services LLC
Name: Kevin Seiberlich
Title: Managing Director
Company: Optimus Financial Services, LLC
City of Residence: Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin
Family: Married to Debbie;, two daughters: Maddie and Allison.
How does the market look to you? "I believe the overall economy is weak, and it is slowly hitting Wisconsin businesses, lenders and investors. In the past six to 12 months, all types of lenders are tightening their credit criteria and investors are scrutinizing their deals even more, which leaves businesses less options. Since we help businesses through crisis situations and turnarounds through improving profit/cash flow and assist with restructuring their corporate finances, our business has really picked up. This just means that Wisconsin businesses need to start the process of changing the way they are looking at how they do business and the effects on their financials. The good news is we are seeing business come back from overseas which will help level out the stresses companies have faced previously."
What are you working on now? "We are currently helping several companies look at restructuring and refinancing their existing debt. We are also acting as interim CFO, treasurer, finance director and GM for several companies that are either distressed or growing very quickly."
What was the best deal you’ve been involved in? "There are two engagements that really standout. One was a middle market supplier that was growing quickly and going through some difficult situations, and we helped provide a solid plan to focus on while we facilitated a $40 million financing which enabled the company more flexibility to grow. The other one was a difficult transaction which enabled a third generation to buy out the second generation, and we provided the company a fresh start to continue that business another 60 years."
What was the funniest or most interesting moment of your career? "I was the division controller of a company that did over 10 acquisitions within 18 months and had to spend some time in the UK rolling together the European operations. When I was there, the British soccer team was in the World Cup, and I was wondering why no one was at work one Friday afternoon. Well, I soon realized where everyone was when I heard a loud roar from the streets and looked out our office window to see people lined up outside at all the bars. Let’s just say we did not get a lot of work done that day."
