Who is West Elk Partners?
West Elk Partners is more than just a private equity firm—we're a team of dedicated professionals with a mission to help business owners realize the full value of what they’ve built, while preserving their legacy and culture. Founded by Chris Hammond, a seasoned M&A advisor with nearly 30 years of experience, West Elk Partners has a unique, people-first approach that sets it apart in the private equity space.
At the heart of West Elk Partners is its commitment to building enduring businesses by focusing on relationships first. The firm doesn't just invest in companies—they invest in the people behind them. As Chris often emphasizes, it’s about “people before profits,” and this philosophy is embedded in every partnership they form.
Our Operational Approach: Building Enduring Businesses
At West Elk Partners, we believe that long-term success stems from a solid operational foundation. Our approach is simple but effective: we start by getting to know the business owners, their teams, and their values. From there, we map out a strategy that allows businesses to reach their peak potential, all while maintaining the culture and legacy that made them successful in the first place.
We focus on operational excellence through proven processes and sound financial planning, ensuring that each business we invest in has the tools to scale. We bring not only capital but also strategic resources, leveraging decades of expertise in M&A, business valuation, and leadership development. Our ultimate goal? To create businesses that are built to last, with no pre-determined exit timelines or quick turnarounds.
Whether you're looking to recapitalize, plan for family succession, or seek a trusted steward for the future of your business, West Elk Partners is here to help you reach new heights. Our partnership is a commitment to elevate your business, your people, and your legacy, all while building something that endures.
Meet the Team
Chris Hammond
Chris Hammond, the Managing Partner of West Elk Partners, brings decades of experience in mergers and acquisitions, capital markets, and value creation to the firm. Over his nearly 30-year career, he has advised on numerous complex transactions, always with a focus on creating win-win outcomes for all parties involved. Known for his creativity in problem-solving and his ability to see the potential in businesses, Chris has a passion for working alongside entrepreneurs to help them achieve their goals.
Chris’s approach goes beyond just financial returns—he’s deeply committed to preserving the culture and legacy of the companies West Elk Partners invests in. He has held leadership roles in various organizations, including the Association for Corporate Growth (ACG), Economic Literacy Colorado, and the Colorado Mountain Bike Association. His experience and leadership have positioned him as a trusted advisor and partner for business owners looking to grow without compromising their values.
Outside of his professional life, Chris is dedicated to his community, actively involved in conservation efforts with Ducks Unlimited and spending time outdoors with family and friends.
Russ Williams
Russ Williams, a Partner at West Elk Partners, complements Chris’s expertise with his own extensive background in financial infrastructure and business planning. With his CFA Charterholder designation and experience as a CFO consultant, Russ is a master at crafting financial strategies that enable businesses to thrive. His leadership in complex valuations, reporting, and operational planning helps business owners ensure that their companies are not just successful today but built for long-term growth.
Russ is equally passionate about giving back to the community, especially through his work with Social Venture Partners Denver and the Denver Children’s Foundation. Like Chris, Russ is deeply involved in the outdoors, which is reflected in both his professional and personal pursuits.
Ken Schrader
Ken Schrader, a Strategic Advisor at West Elk Partners, brings over 35 years of executive leadership experience to his role. With a passion for guiding business owners and leaders towards achieving their goals, Ken has facilitated more than 500 full-day EOS sessions for over 60 companies in the past six years.
Ken's approach combines practical business acumen with the proven EOS methodology, focusing on developing clear vision, gaining traction, and building healthy teams. He has provided over 4,000 hours of leadership coaching to leaders and leadership teams on their path to EOS mastery. Ken's experience spans various industries, from entrepreneurial ventures to large manufacturing operations, allowing him to offer nuanced insights tailored to each client's unique challenges.
Ken's dedication to transforming businesses and developing exceptional leadership makes him an invaluable asset for companies that seek to optimize their performance and reach new heights.
