Operators. Investors. Stewards.

Thomas Rhodes is a Partner at EverPine Holdings and leads the firm’s work around operating strategy, leadership development, and value creation across its portfolio companies.

Prior to EverPine, Thomas built his career operating and growing family-owned businesses. He has helped lead Rhodes Graduation Services, the largest independent Jostens distributor in the United States, and has been involved in the acquisition and integration of multiple businesses across the Southeast.

Thomas has served as Chairman of the South Carolina Chamber of Commerce and is a Commissioner with the South Carolina Department of Transportation. He has also held leadership roles with Clemson University, CERRA, and the Salvation Army of the Midlands. Thomas is a graduate of Clemson University. 

Austin Rhodes is a Partner at EverPine Holdings and focuses on sourcing, founder relationships, capital partnerships, and the firm’s long-term strategic development.

Austin has spent his career building and investing in businesses across the Southeast. He began his career with Rhodes Graduation Services, where he worked across sales, business development, territory expansion, and customer relationships. He later co-founded Rhodes Branding, a specialized marketing and strategy firm serving the education market, and has been involved in the growth and oversight of multiple businesses through Rhodes Companies.

Austin has also spent nearly a decade helping build the regional investment ecosystem through VentureSouth Midlands, where he has worked with entrepreneurs and investors across the Southeast. His civic and professional involvement has included the South Carolina Heritage Trust, Venture Carolina, the South Carolina Education Policy Program, and other business and education organizations. Austin is a graduate of Clemson University.

Walker Hobson is a Partner at EverPine Holdings and leads much of the firm’s transaction execution, financial analysis, diligence, and capital markets activity.

Prior to EverPine, Walker held roles with Piper Sandler and WSC & Company and founded Yard Alliance. His experience spans private equity, investment banking, lower middle-market acquisitions, financial modeling, diligence, debt and equity financing, portfolio management, and post-close financial oversight. Earlier in his career, Walker served five years in the U.S. Army as a parachute infantry officer and Ranger.

Walker serves on the Board of Advisors for Duke Entrepreneurship and has remained active with organizations across Charlotte and the Southeast. He is a graduate of Stetson University and Duke University.