New York / Zurich, June 3, 2025 – Novastone Capital Advisors (NCA) is proud to announce the acquisition of Cronus Technology Inc. (CTI), a Texas-based specialist in high-end pipeline engineering, by Bill Rees, an experienced executive and participant in NCA’s Operator-Led Search Fund Program. The transaction marks the 24th acquisition executed within the Novastone Partners – NP Operator-led Buyout Global Fund I and follows two successful exits, underlining the strength and momentum of the platform.
Founded in 2004, CTI delivers critical engineering solutions for onshore, offshore, and subsea pipeline systems in extreme environments. The former owner, Mr. Eric Romero, sought a leadership solution that would preserve the company’s legacy while enabling continued innovation. With over 30 years of sector experience, Bill Rees was a natural fit. His leadership will guide CTI into its next chapter.
“From the beginning, I felt that every single NCA member was invested in me and my success,” said Bill Rees. “NCA’s program gave me the freedom to focus on what I do best while providing world-class support across legal, due diligence, finance, and investor relations.”
This acquisition represents another successful succession solution executed via NCA’s model, pairing high-caliber operators with resilient SMEs. The acquisition process was supported by NCA’s 50+ person expert team and demonstrates the strength of its cross-functional M&A infrastructure.
“Congratulations to Bill and the CTI team,” said Christian Malek, CEO of NCA. “This transaction captures the essence of what we do: ensuring business continuity by empowering talented mid-career professionals to step into leadership at companies with strong legacies and real potential.”
As part of the NP Operator-led Buyout Global Fund I, this transaction reinforces the fund’s strategy of backing experienced operators and enabling sustainable SME transitions across North America and Europe.
ABOUT NOVASTONE CAPITAL ADVISORS (NCA)
Novastone Capital Advisors is a global firm tackling SME succession challenges through its Operator-Led Search Fund Program. NCA partners with mid-career professionals to identify, acquire, and lead established SMEs. The firm provides operational support, capital, and governance throughout the investment lifecycle. Learn more at www.novastone-ca.com
ABOUT CRONUS TECHNOLOGY INC.
Based in Houston, Texas, CTI provides full-cycle engineering services for complex pipeline and subsea development projects in the energy sector. CTI is recognized for its reliability, precision, and adherence to safety and regulatory excellence. Learn more at www.cronustec.com
ABOUT NOVASTONE PARTNERS (NP)
Novastone Partners is the exclusive Fund Advisor to the NP Operator-led Buyout Global Fund I, a Luxembourg-based RAIF. The fund targets buyouts in the lower mid-market across Europe and North America and exclusively invest in acquisitions from NCA to ensure seamless execution and long-term value creation through succession-driven investments. Learn more a t www.novastonepartners.com
