Connecticut — Pierce Ridge Capital today announced key leadership updates and strategic hires as part of its ongoing commitment to building a world-class organization positioned for long-term growth.

The firm has promoted Rich Portelance to Chief Revenue Officer & President of PRC’s Tire and Automotive Division, reflecting his continued leadership in driving growth and client relationships since Pierce Ridge Capital’s inception. As a founding partner of the firm, Rich has been instrumental in the development of our business pipeline and the processes by which we now operate. 

Matt D’Urso has joined as Chief Operating Officer, bringing more than 32 years of experience in the consumer products industry. He has held leadership roles at Gillette and Mars Petcare, overseeing businesses ranging from a $600 million regional grocery portfolio to over $1 billion across mass and pet specialty channels. Recognized as a 2024 Mars Champions Club inductee, D’Urso is widely respected for building high-performing teams, driving engagement, and mentoring the next generation of leaders. His operational expertise will be instrumental as Pierce Ridge Capital enters its next phase of growth.

The firm has also welcomed Nicolas Diiulio as Senior Deal Team Advisor, strengthening its finance and operations capabilities. Diiulio brings a powerful combination of financial expertise, lending/real estate experience, and process optimization. At Leader Bank, he advanced quickly in his lending career, while his work at Sikorsky, a Lockheed Martin Company, gave him exposure to high-level program finance for complex aerospace projects. Known for his analytical sharpness, adaptability, and entrepreneurial mindset, Diiulio represents the next generation of financial leadership — bringing both discipline and innovation to Pierce Ridge Capital’s operations as the firm scales.

To expand PRC’s focus on the next generation of high-growth companies, we’re thrilled to welcome Conlan O’Rourke as Senior Marketing Associate/Deal Team Advisor. Conlan studied Business Administration at the University of Maine and brings with him not just sharp business insight, but a unique edge in digital content, AI, and next-gen entrepreneurship. His fresh perspective, strong connectivity, and ability to bridge innovation with execution make him a powerful addition as PRC continues to scale into the future of business.

“PRC’s continued success in closing quality transactions in the Tire and Automotive industry required a senior leader to take this division to new heights, and Rich has proven himself up for the task,” said Shamus O’Rourke, CEO of Pierce Ridge Capital. O’Rourke added, “Matt has been a trusted friend since our days at the University of San Diego. His experience speaks for itself, and Irish luck certainly played a part, as the timing of his availability couldn’t have been more perfect. His skill set will be critical to sustaining PRC’s rapid growth. Nick brings broad experience and unmatched energy, and being able to work with my son, Conlan, and watch him flourish is a blessing. Two things continue to stand out at Pierce Ridge Capital—culture and growth—and the expansion of this team is a testament to both.”