Great American (GA Group), a provider of financial advisory, valuation, asset disposition, investment banking and lending services and majority-owned by funds managed by Oaktree Capital Management, appointed Joseph “Joe” Malfitano as president and head of its retail, merchant & industrial solutions business lines.
Malfitano brings more than 25 years of experience advising companies in the retail, industrial, and commercial sectors through complex restructurings, turnarounds and high-profile transactions. He is recognized for his expertise in asset acquisition and monetization, as well as his ability to deliver strategies that maximize both immediate and long-term stakeholder value.
“Joe’s deep experience and proven leadership in restructuring and asset-based solutions make him exceptionally well-suited to lead our business forward,” Scott Carpenter, former CEO and now senior advisor of GA’s retail, merchant and industrial solutions business lines, said. “As GA Group continues to grow and evolve, his ability to navigate complex situations and deliver results will further strengthen our platform and enhance the value we bring to clients.”
Dan Shribman, CEO of GA Group, added, “Joe is a world class talent whose mandate is to dramatically expand our market presence and service offerings. The retail landscape is in constant transition, and we are focused on being able to deliver advice and monetization strategies to consumer-focused businesses throughout their corporate journeys. On the industrial side of our business, we look forward to leveraging our expansive asset expertise and expanding our first-class disposition vertical.”
Malfitano has held senior leadership roles at two global investment and advisory firms, leading the development and execution of asset acquisition and disposition strategies for both performing and distressed companies. He also previously founded Malfitano Partners, a boutique advisory firm involved in numerous retail restructurings. Malfitano led engagements in several of the highest profile retail transformations, including Toys “R” Us, Payless ShoeSource, Ascena Retail Group (Dressbarn, Ann Taylor, Loft, Catherines, Justice, Lane Bryant), Brooks Brothers, Gymboree, Bon-Ton Stores, Pier 1 Imports, Fred’s, Avenue Stores, Charlotte Russe, Earth Fare, Things Remembered, real (Germany) and Eastern Mountain Sports.
Earlier in his career, Malfitano practiced law at Young Conaway Stargatt & Taylor, a large bankruptcy and corporate restructuring firms in Wilmington, Delaware, advising stakeholders in significant Chapter 11 proceedings. Malfitano earned a juris doctor from Temple University and a bachelor of science from SUNY Buffalo State University. He is a member of the American Bankruptcy Institute and the Turnaround Management Association, and serves on the Restructuring Executive Committee of UJA-Federation of New York.
“I’m honored to join GA Group at such a dynamic time in the market,” Malfitano said. “The firm has a rich history and a strong reputation for delivering solid guidance and innovative, results-driven solutions. I look forward to working with the world-class team to build on that foundation, expand our capabilities and drive continued growth for our clients and stakeholders.”
Scott Carpenter will transition to the role of senior advisor, reflecting his longstanding dedication to GA Group and the business he has helped build and grow over decades. In this role, he will work closely with leadership to ensure continuity, preserve the firm’s strong relationships and support a seamless transition. His continued involvement underscores his commitment to GA Group’s long-term success and his desire to help guide the next phase of growth.
