Gardner Standard LLC
Craig Francisco is an accomplished executive with extensive experience in operations and leadership across various industries. Currently serving as Chief Operating Officer at Gardner Standard LLC since February 2025, Craig focuses on driving sustainable growth and operational excellence. Additional roles include Ambassador at Authenica, promoting authentic connections and engagement, and Vistage Speaker, sharing insights on redefining success. Previous positions encompass Chief Operating Officer and President of the Americas at Calibre Scientific, President & COO at RōBEX, and founder of Francisco Consulting, LLC, among others. Craig's educational background includes a degree from Bowling Green State University, emphasizing a career dedicated to achieving success while maintaining personal values.
This person is not in any teams
This person is not in any offices
Gardner Standard LLC
Gardner Standard is a family-owned private equity firm with a strong heritage of investing in complex and challenging situations. We specialize in transactions where legal, financial, or operational challenges deter other buyers—turning obstacles into opportunities through hands-on execution and long-term value creation. INVESTMENT CRITERIA We seek investment opportunities with revenues up to $150 million, with no minimum requirement for add-on acquisitions. While we have a strong preference for industries such as aerospace & defense, manufacturing, and engineered products, we remain industry-agnostic for the right opportunity. TRANSACTION TYPES We focus on complex transactions, including special situations involving operational or financial distress, restructurings, and turnarounds. We have extensive experience in businesses with legal challenges, such as on-going litigation, environmental concerns, asbestos exposure, product liability, recalls, and warranty claims. Additionally, we actively pursue corporate carve-outs, acquiring non-core or orphaned business units that can benefit from our operational expertise. At Gardner Standard, we excel where others shy away. If you come across a complex transaction that requires speed and a certainty of closing, let’s talk.