Founders Investment Banking, LLC (Founders) today announced that John F. Ortstadt has joined the firm, expanding its depth and expertise in the oil and gas services industry. This hire demonstrates Founders’ commitment to providing growing oilfield services businesses with an experienced, talented team.

Ortstadt will serve as director of business development for Founders’ Oil and Gas Services Practice Group. He brings to the firm an industry-rich background and deep experience, working in both the oilfield and financial services industries. In his new role at Founders, Ortstadt will focus on developing relationships with business owners and strategic business advisors, specifically in the oil and gas services industry.

“John is extremely talented, and his industry experience will be a tremendous asset to our Oil and Gas Services Practice,” said Duane Donner, Managing Partner at Founders. “We are committed to continuing to expand in order to optimally serve this growing industry, and we look forward to many more future successes, in which John will play an integral role.”

Prior to joining Founders, John worked for Smith International, now a part of Schlumberger, as an operations supervisor in the Shreveport, La., office, where he successfully helped manage operations during the height of the Haynesville Shale play. Additionally, he worked at Morgan Keegan & Co. as a member of its Private Client Group where he helped high net worth clients create customized solutions to address complex financial needs.

“I admire Founders’ approach to helping businesses and individuals achieve their financial goals, and I am thrilled to be a member of the team,” said Ortstadt. “I am very passionate about the oil and gas services industry which has experienced tremendous growth and I am eager to expand Founders’ footprint in the market while leveraging my background and industry knowledge.”

John is a native of Marietta, Ga., and earned his bachelor of science degree in business administration from Auburn University and his MBA from the University of Montana.