Stapleton Group hired Mike Bergthold as a managing director to support the increasing demand for the firm’s strategic advisory and restructuring services.

As an independent provider of financial advisory and professional fiduciary services in the western U.S., Stapleton has completed more than 250 engagements exceeding $2 billion in assets since it was founded in 2008. Recent engagements include serving as receiver of California’s $409 million lead paint abatement fund, serving as CRO and managing the sale of a $100 million revenue wholesaler and negotiating a forbearance agreement, out-of-court restructuring and refinancing as financial advisor to an agricultural company.

“Mike brings a unique combination of hands-on experience to the team, including executive management, operating turnarounds and complex restructuring plans,” David Stapleton, president of Stapleton Group, said. “His breadth of industry knowledge and collaborative style will enhance Stapleton’s ability to drive immediate and measurable results for our clients.”

In distressed situations, Bergthold manages all aspects of designing and implementing restructuring strategies, leads capital raises and negotiates with stakeholders. He has guided clients through legal processes in formal and informal reorganizations and often unites disparate creditor and investor classes.

Before joining Stapleton, Bergthold served as managing director for Optima Office, where he supported the firm’s growth from 18 to more than 60 employees and 25 to 100 clients within two years. Bergthold will continue to serve as an advisory board member at Optima Office. His previous experience includes serving as CFO, president and chief restructuring officer for public and privately held companies in a range of industries, including agriculture, diagnostic laboratory, financial services, real estate, transportation, IT services and manufacturing. Bergthold is a Certified Fraud Examiner and was a licensed CPA for 25 years. He worked for Big Four firms Andersen and EY.