XLCS Partners, Inc., a leading middle-market investment banking firm, is pleased to announce the promotion of John (JP) Picard to Senior Analyst and the addition of two analysts to the firm. After previously interning with XLCS, Dylan Connell and Will Franklin have joined the firm full-time as analysts.

JP has been promoted to Senior Analyst after joining XLCS in 2024. JP graduated magna cum laude from Wofford College with a Bachelor of Science degree in Finance and Energy Studies and holds FINRA Series 79 and Series 63 licenses. He works primarily in the power, infrastructure, and utility sectors and has taken on increasing responsibility across the firm’s engagements.

XLCS is also pleased to welcome Dylan Connell and Will Franklin to the team.

Dylan Connell has joined XLCS as an Analyst. He earned his bachelor’s degree and Master of Science in Management from the Gies College of Business at the University of Illinois. Dylan wrestled for five years at Illinois and qualified for the NCAA Championships.

Will Franklin has joined XLCS as an Analyst. He graduated summa cum laude from Auburn University in 2026 and holds FINRA Series 79 and Series 63 licenses.

Dylan and Will support deal execution, financial analysis, and business development initiatives across the firm.

“We are on track for the biggest year in our history,” said Bob Contaldo, Managing Partner at XLCS. “It is because of the exceptional people who have joined us over the past several years, together with our core group of long-time employees, that we have achieved record year over record year. With the addition of Dylan and Will and the growth of JP, we continue on this most exciting path.”

XLCS is having another strong year in 2026, with completed transactions across aerospace and defense, building products, construction, industrial manufacturing and distribution, field services, and utility infrastructure.

XLCS is actively seeking experienced associate and VP-level investment banking professionals. Please visit XLCS Careers for more information.

About XLCS Partners, Inc.
XLCS Partners is an investment banking firm providing M&A advisory services to select clients globally. More information is available at www.xlcspartners.com.