Argosy Private Equity, a firm specializing in investments within the manufacturing and B2B services sectors of the lower middle market, has appointed Pete Chatel as the new Chief Executive Officer of Barco Products, LLC. Barco Products, known for its commercial outdoor furnishings and traffic safety items, joined forces with Argosy in August 2023.
Pete Chatel brings over 25 years of leadership experience in the manufacturing sector, particularly within the hardware industry. His most recent role was as President of Hultafors Group North America, where he oversaw significant growth through acquisitions and organic initiatives. Previously, he played a pivotal role at Black & Decker, contributing to the successful launch of the DeWalt brand and holding various commercial and management positions, including international assignments in Canada and New Zealand.
Before joining Barco Products, Chatel was part of the executive team at Senco Brands, a private equity-backed manufacturer in Cincinnati, OH, where he helped lead a successful turnaround resulting in a profitable exit for the investors.
Chatel holds a Bachelor of Arts in Marketing from Michigan State University and an MBA from Loyola University of Maryland. He and his wife Cathy are relocating to the Chicago area for his new role.
Michael Bailey, Partner at Argosy, expressed enthusiasm about Chatel’s appointment, noting his track record in driving teams to achieve substantial growth. Chatel himself expressed confidence in Barco Products’ future under his leadership, highlighting the company’s strong team, innovative products, strategic market approach, and promising growth prospects.
Founded in 1990, Argosy Private Equity partners with management teams to invest in companies with competitive advantages and growth potential. It operates as part of Argosy Capital Group, a national investment advisor managing funds across private equity, real estate, credit, healthcare, and secondaries strategies.
Barco Products, headquartered in Batavia, Illinois and established in 1984, specializes in commercial outdoor site furnishings and traffic safety products. Its brands include TreeTop Products, Barco Products, Kirby Built Products, and Barco Canada, each serving distinct customer profiles and markets with products often made from recycled materials.
