McDermott + Bull has successfully placed Mike McGee as Chief Financial Officer at private equity-backed Lugano Diamonds. Mike will be charged with ensuring tactical execution of the CEO’s strategic vision, while partnering with the leadership team and board. He will have direct supervision of the finance and accounting function, including creating and implementing operational efficiencies.
Mike has over 30 years of experience in progressive finance and accounting with proven success in strategic planning, corporate development, board and donor relations, accounting, finance, human resources, in addition to IT management in private equity-owned, SEC, and non-profit structures. Mike most recently served as CFO for California Academy of Sciences. He was named CFO of the Year in 2015 by the Orange County Business Journal and nominated as a finalist for CFO of the Year in 2021 by the San Francisco Business Times for extraordinary accomplishments as a CFO. He has spent most of his career operationalizing the infrastructure of businesses to enable big and bold growth.
Lugano Diamonds was founded by CEO, Moti Ferder, with the vision of creating exquisite, one-of-a-kind jewelry. Each piece is a true work of art made with the world’s rarest and most precious gems. Lugano’s global connections allow them to procure the rarest, most unique, and largest stones, which are exemplified in their stunning creations. This knowledge has contributed to his success in establishing Lugano Diamonds as one of the finest jewelers in the world. Under Moti Ferder’s leadership, Lugano Diamonds opened its Grand Salon and headquarters in 2005 in Newport Beach, California. In the years since, Ferder has opened salons in Aspen, CO; Palm Beach, FL; and Ocala, FL to support Lugano’s equestrian efforts.
Compass Diversified (NYSE: CODI) offers shareholders a unique opportunity to own a diverse group of leading middle-market businesses. CODI owns controlling interests in its subsidiary businesses, which maximizes their operating flexibility and drives long-term value creation. Unlike traditional private equity investors, CODI’s permanent capital structure enables them to invest in people, processes, culture, and growth opportunities that drive transformational change.
This executive search was completed by McDermott + Bull Co-Founder and Managing Partner Chris Bull, Vice President Chris Craig, Directors Anne Terry and Sara Pizzaro, and Research Manager Rachel Simonsen.