Business Development Professional to Watch: Recognizing Lauren Smyers
“In a world where quick wins can be tempting, prioritizing people and the creation of lasting value is paramount.”
Boca Raton, FL, April 17, 2025 — Lauren Smyers has been recognized by Middle Market DealMaker magazine as one of the top business development professionals to watch. See her interview below.
Question: Tell us about Validor and yourself.
Smyers: Validor is a private investment firm located in Boca Raton, FL. We seek lower middle market industrial, manufacturing, and service opportunities. I lead our business development efforts. Prior to Validor Capital, I led business development at Weatherford Capital. I previously served in marketing and investor relations at The Carlyle Group and Siguler Guff. I attended Northeastern University where I earned my BS degree, cum laude, in Behavioral Neuroscience.
Question: Which professional accomplishment from 2024 are you most proud of?
Smyers: I'm most proud of contributing to the growth of Validor's manufacturing portfolio companies and strengthening our market position as an industrials leader. Through The Fairway Society, a golf society for M&A professionals I founded, I've deepened relationships with our key partners. These efforts have not only enhanced actionable deal flow opportunities for Validor but have also supported the development of emerging business development professionals. I'm excited to build on this momentum and capitalize on high-potential opportunities in 2025.
Question: What is a professional goal that you hope to achieve in 2025?
Smyers: I'd like to continue honing my skills in securing the right investment opportunities for Validor. Beyond technical growth, I'm looking to foster an environment where my work feels fun. For me, that means embracing challenges alongside my partners, appreciating the people I meet and building friendships. Whether working with intermediaries, executives or other PE professionals, my focus in 2025 is to create meaningful connections that drive business success while making the journey enjoyable.
Question: What's the best piece of professional advice you've ever received?
Smyers: "Invest in enduring success." It's a powerful reminder to focus on what truly matters: investing in personal growth, the growth of those around you, and the growth of companies and management teams you serve. In a world where quick wins can be tempting, prioritizing people and the creation of lasting value is paramount.
Check out the 2025 Middle Market DealMaker magazine HERE.
About Validor Capital
Validor Capital is a private investment firm that provides liquidity to family and founder owned industrial, manufacturing, and service businesses in the lower middle market. We seek situations where we can partner with management teams to leverage our combined expertise and deep industry relationships to create significant value. For more information, please visit www.validorcap.com.