Morgan Stanley (NYSE:MS) on Tuesday announced that its middle-market private equity arm has struck a majority investment deal with engineering firm Olsson, Inc.
Morgan Stanley Capital Partners agreed to take a majority stake in Olsson, a prominent employee-owned engineering and design company.
The transaction includes a significant reinvestment by Olsson employees, underscoring shared interests in the firm’s future growth.
Olsson, founded in 1956 in Lincoln, Nebraska, has more than 2,000 workers across 35 offices nationwide. The company provides engineering design and consulting across technology, transportation, water, power, and federal markets.
Private Equity Strategy
Morgan Stanley Capital Partners’ investment marks its fourth platform in infrastructure services since 2021, following prior stakes in Resource Innovations, Apex, and Alliance Technical Group.
Morgan Stanley Capital Partners said it brings deep sector expertise to help Olsson scale operations and enter new markets.
Eric Kanter, Morgan Stanley Capital Partners’ head of industrial services, said the firm is “proud to partner with Olsson” while preserving its employee-owned culture.
Kanter said the partnership positions Olsson to expand in targeted geographies and industries using MSCP’s infrastructure experience.
Employee Ownership Emphasis
Olsson CEO Brad Strittmatter described the deal as a true partnership that aligns with the company’s people-first culture.
Strittmatter said Olsson will maintain its name, brand, and leadership while investing in new technologies and expertise.
He said the firm looks forward to growth opportunities with Morgan Stanley Capital Partners’ network and resources.
The Environmental Financial Consulting Group served as Olsson’s exclusive financial advisor.
Koley Jessen acted as legal counsel to Olsson during the transaction, the parties said.
MS Price Action: Morgan Stanley shares were down 1.81% at $183.19 at the time of publication on Tuesday. The stock is approaching its 52-week high of $188.82, according to Benzinga Pro data.
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