Women-Owned Investment Group Acquires Majority Interest In Historic Minority Owned Facilities Management Company

DETROIT – Lauren Rakolta has acquired a majority interest in Devon Facility Management (DFM).

DFM has operated since 2007 as a subsidiary of Devon Contract Holdings and Walbridge.

DFM will operate and is certified as a woman business enterprise (WBE) by the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC.)

DFM provides innovative and forward-thinking operations and maintenance service solutions to automotive and industrial manufacturing, aviation, and utilities customers. With annual revenue of $35 million and more than 300 employees, DFM excels in delivering world-class service and value added solutions in the facilities management space.
 
David Burnley, Sr., Devon Contract Holdings chairman, sold his majority position in DFM to Ms. Rakolta. Ms. Rakolta becomes DFM President.

“David Burnley built an outstanding minority business enterprise committed to increasing opportunities for diverse suppliers in this industry,” Rakolta said. “To move the business forward now as a WBE expands options for owners and managers in the marketplace.”

Burnley said the decision to divest his interests in DFM “came after considerable deliberation.”

“I’ve known Lauren for some time and believe she and her team will successfully introduce new, fresh solutions to this industry,” Burnley said. “I’m confident they will deliver the highest quality of service to DFM’s current and future customers.”

Burnley added that he plans to focus his efforts on a succession plan for his children for Devon Industrial Group and Devon Contracting.

John Rakolta, Jr., Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Walbridge, called the transition at DFM, “Something that brings new and exciting changes to the field of facility management.”

Previously, Ms. Rakolta founded The Rakolta Group, a consulting firm focused on campaign strategy and business development for various corporations, political candidates and committees. She has served as a senior adviser for both statewide and nationally elected officials.