Steve Stagner is a Partner in the Operating Performance Group leading strategy & human capital across select portfolio companies.  In his role he guides portfolio companies and their leadership teams to formalize their strategic roadmap while optimizing the human capital team.  Prior to joining LightBay, Mr. Stagner was Executive Chairman and CEO of Mattress Firm, the nation’s leading specialty retailer of mattresses that operated over 2,500 company owned and franchised locations.  During his 23-year tenure, Mr. Stagner led various stages of growth from starting with one location and building the largest franchisee to leading the parent company’s expansion from $250m in annual revenue to over $2.5b.  He also led the company through two leveraged buyouts, listing the company on NASDAQ, and exiting for $3.8b to an international conglomerate.  Mr. Stagner sits on several operating and advisory boards while significantly contributing to various philanthropic endeavors.

Mr. Stagner holds a BBA in Marketing from Stephen F. Austin and an Advanced Sales and Doctor of Humane Letters from the University of Houston.