David Hook
Managing Director and Private Equity in Plano, TX
David Hook is the Managing Director at Baymark Partners, a private equity firm specializing in leveraged recapitalizations and management buyouts of high-growth companies and middle-market services. Over the last 15 years, Hook has been instrumental in acquiring 60 companies and has facilitated over 50 early-stage tech companies reaching IPOs, with five selling for over $165 million each.
Originally from Cleveland, Ohio, Hook began his educational journey at Bowling Green State University before transferring to Wittenberg University. There, he obtained a Bachelor of Science in Accounting. He continues contributing to higher education by guest lecturing MBA students at Southern Methodist University, sharing his extensive knowledge of business finance and venture capital.
Hook's career is distinguished by his significant roles on the Southwest Venture Forum Steering Committee and the DFW Private Equity Forum. He has mentored numerous entrepreneurial ventures through these platforms, aligning their strategic plans with financial and operational goals to foster growth and stability.
In the early 1980s, Hook relocated to California to immerse himself in Silicon Valley during its technological boom. His time there included working at Mohr and Davidow Ventures and co-founding the first Hook Partners Fund. He has been a General Partner in seven venture capital partnerships under the Hook brand, specializing in leveraged finances and startup investments.
His keen financial insight prompted a move to Dallas, TX, in 1988, where he capitalized on the opportunities within the emerging Telecom Corridor. His strategic investments have significantly impacted the tech industry, including successful ventures with companies like Volterra Semiconductor and Adaptive Solutions.
Today, Hook continues to drive Baymark Partners' success, leveraging his expertise in growth capital and leveraged financing strategies to make substantial contributions to the tech sector. His leadership and visionary approach have established him as a respected figure in venture capital.
Beyond his professional achievements, David Hookis is deeply committed to philanthropy. He serves on the boards of several nonprofits and supports organizations that assist the disadvantaged. An avid sports enthusiast, Hook enjoys golf, tennis, and the increasingly popular sport of pickleball.