Walker Espy

Walker Espy is a private equity investor and entrepreneur with a track record of identifying overlooked opportunities and transforming them into thriving, high-value enterprises. Originally from Atlanta, Georgia, Walker graduated from Southern Methodist University in 2022 before beginning his career as an acquisitions analyst with Onu Ventures, a real estate development firm based in Dallas, Texas.

His early work focused on sourcing and underwriting value-add real estate investments, particularly properties with untapped potential that could be repositioned to achieve market-rate performance. This experience sharpened his ability to spot operational inefficiencies and create structured improvement plans that deliver measurable returns.In 2023, Walker transitioned from real estate to the small- and medium-sized business (SMB) acquisition space, drawn by the parallels between repositioning physical assets and revitalizing under-optimized companies. That same year, he partnered with Dennis Onalaja to form Equity Front Capital, with a shared mission to acquire stable businesses with strong cultures but outdated operational frameworks.

Initially targeting four key verticals—commercial cleaning, disaster restoration, soil remediation, and therapy & pain management—the firm quickly identified the mental and behavioral health sector as a prime growth opportunity. In November 2024, Equity Front Capital completed its first acquisition, Perrysburg Counseling Services (now rebranded as Premiere Counseling Services), marking the launch of a strategic roll-up in the mental and behavioral health industry.

Today, Walker leads Equity Front Capital’s acquisition strategy, focusing on scaling Premiere Counseling Services and expanding the firm’s portfolio through additional acquisitions in the healthcare sector. His approach blends disciplined financial analysis with a deep respect for preserving the culture and mission of the businesses Equity Front Capital acquires.