Will Smith Promoted to Partner at 5th Century Partners

CHICAGO—Private investment firm 5th Century Partners (5CP) announced it has promoted Will Smith to partner. The company said Smith’s promotion represents the first time 5CP has elevated an executive to the partner level. In this expanded role, he will continue to lead 5CP’s Portfolio Optimization Practice while joining the firm’s investment committee.

Since joining 5CP in 2023, Smith has been instrumental in driving growth and elevating the firm’s value creation strategy. He launched the firm’s Portfolio Optimization Practice, which is designed to provide bespoke resources and fit-for-purpose strategic plans that unlock growth and enhance value creation for portfolio companies.

“Will has driven transformational value across the firm through his dedication and talent for working with our portfolio companies to accelerate growth and execute long-term strategic plans,” said Marques Torbert, co-founder and managing partner at 5th Century Partners.

Smith will continue developing and scaling 5CP’s Portfolio Optimization Practice, which includes identifying new investment areas, cultivating industry relationships and leading post-acquisition integrations. He and his team will continue to support portfolio companies in developing operational and financial infrastructure, collaborating on strategy, building out management teams and serving as a go to resource for leadership teams. 5CP currently has 12 active portfolio companies across two funds.

“Having the opportunity to help lead 5CP into this next phase of growth and continue contributing to our strong momentum is very rewarding,” Smith said. “I’m energized by the opportunity to build a truly differentiated model working hand in hand with our portfolio companies to accelerate value realization. Our mandate remains clear and unchanged: maximize value for our investors and partners, move with urgency, and preserve the founder DNA that makes these businesses so special.”

Smith brings more than 25 years of operating experience with a strong track record of growth, mergers and acquisitions and operational leadership. Smith has served in various executive roles for private equity-backed companies including president, chief operating officer and chief product officer responsibilities. Smith most recently served as chief strategy and growth officer at private equity-backed One Call, where he helped grow the company to more than $1 billion in revenue.