Who We Are

Burt Mattice is the Co-Founder and President of Diatom Capital, bringing more than 30 years of leadership experience across the aerospace and defense industries. With a career defined by strategic growth, operational excellence, and a commitment to preserving legacy, Burt plays a pivotal role in identifying, acquiring, and accelerating growth in founder-led businesses.

• Seasoned Executive-Prior to founding Diatom Capital, Burt served as Executive Vice President at Hartzell Propeller, where he led global operations, supply chain optimization, regulatory compliance, sales and service expansion, and successful M&A initiatives. His deep industry knowledge and hands-on leadership have made him a trusted operator in highly complex, regulated environments.
• Steward of Legacy-Burt believes that the core of a great business lies in its people and purpose. He is known for empowering teams, preserving company culture, and eliminating barriers to unlock sustainable growth. His approach ensures that legacy companies not only endure, but thrive in the modern market.
• Aviator at Heart-A licensed and instrument-rated private pilot with over 1,000 Pilot-in-Command hours, Burt brings a personal passion for aviation to every endeavor. His deep connection to flight underscores his commitment to the industry and enhances his understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by aerospace businesses.

Paul is Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer of Diatom Aviation, with full responsibility for business development and operational execution.

• Co-Founder & COO with 20+ Years of Aviation Expertise – Leading Diatom Aviation’s growth since its first DHL contract in 2018.
• Proven Operational Leadership – Managed teams of up to 40 employees across ULD repair, aircraft modifications, and aviation services.
• Aviation Maintenance Specialist – Holds an AAS in Aviation Maintenance Technology and a passion for innovation in aerospace operations.

Jeff serves as Operating Partner of Diatom Capital and leads the Company’s strategy, finance and sustainability efforts.

• Seasoned Executive & Investor – Former CFO of Chiquita and Managing Director at Foxhole Equity with deep expertise in operations and private investment.
• Expert in Aerospace Strategy and Financial Leadership – Guides Diatom’s growth through strategic planning, operational excellence, and sustainable business practices.
• Passionate About Innovation and Sustainability – MBA from Wharton and 15 years on the board of BSR, advancing global business sustainability.

Leslie brings more than 30 years of innovative HR leadership across the automotive, transportation, and consumer products industries.

• HR Leader Driving Growth & Integration – Led human resources strategy for multi-billion-dollar Greenfield investments, including the LH Battery/Honda-LG joint venture in Jeffersonville, OH, and Semcorp Manufacturing in Sidney, OH.
  
• Expert in Startups & Acquisitions – Extensive experience guiding business integration, company startups, and newly acquired operations across multiple industries.
  
• Formal Training in Human Resources & Business Strategy – Bachelor’s degree in business, human resources focus, from Miami University’s Farmer School of Business.

Drew Myers is the Managing Director of Foxhole Equity and Co-Founder and Partner of Diatom Capital.

• Co-Founder & Partner Driving Growth Across Aerospace and Real Estate – Leads Diatom and Foxhole Equity with a focus on strategic investments and operational excellence.
• Entrepreneurial Leader with Military Precision – Former Marine Corps captain and founder of multiple successful ventures, including RecruitMilitary.
• Experienced Investor & Business Builder – MBA from Xavier University with a track record in private equity, business development, and community-focused enterprises.

A.J. is Managing Director of Foxhole Equity, a mid-market private investment firm based in Greater Cincinnati with interests in both operating businesses and real estate.

• Private Equity Executive Driving Operational and Strategic Growth – Managing Director of Foxhole Equity with expertise in mid-market business and real estate investments.
• Leadership and Talent Optimization Specialist – Founder of a Culture Index advisory practice helping companies scale effectively.
• Proven Track Record in Business Development and Legal Strategy – Former startup leader and law firm partner with deep experience in structuring and executing complex deals.

Actively involved in commercial real estate for more than 20 years, Eric is a seasoned real estate developer with deep experience in sourcing, leading, managing and executing all aspects of new development and redevelopment real estate projects.

• Commercial Real Estate Expert with $250M+ in Projects Delivered – 20+ years of hands-on experience in new development and complex redevelopment across the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast.
• Proven Leadership in Large-Scale Real Estate Strategy – Former President & COO of Paramount Development, overseeing leasing, property management, and M&A activities.
• Legal and Financial Strategist – MBA and J.D. from the University of Kentucky with expertise in structuring real estate, financing, and corporate transactions.