Leonard Green & Partners, L.P.

Type: Private
On the web: http://www.leonardgreen.com

This Green's thumb is you-know-what when it comes to private equity. Leonard Green & Partners (LGP) specializes in long-term investments in friendly buyouts, focusing on retailers and consumer products companies such as Neiman Marcus, Varsity Brands, The Sports Authority, and Rite Aid. The investment firm generally doesn't participate in the day-to-day operations of its holdings; it does, however, take seats on the board to help direct strategic and financial development. Currently investing its fifth private equity fund, LGP owns stakes in about 20 firms and manages some $9 billion in equity capital.

Officers:
Managing Partner: John G. Danhakl
COO: Michael Gennaro
CFO: Cody L. Franklin

Competitors:
CD&R
HM Capital Partners
Thomas H. Lee Partners