Committed Buyer.
Long-Term Operator.
Mission
My mission is to acquire and operate an exceptional business in North Texas while preserving the legacy of its founders and building upon its success for the future.
Ironwood is committed to a thoughtful transition process that respects what owners have built and ensures stability for employees, customers, and the surrounding community. As a long-term, hands-on owner-operator—not a financial engineer—I bring legal, operational, and strategic experience to steward a business through its next chapter with care and integrity.
About Ironwood
Ironwood Search Group is a Dallas-based entrepreneurial firm founded by Jeffrey Dietz, a native Texan and SMU Dedman School of Law graduate with a background in mergers and acquisitions. Ironwood was formed to acquire and operate a single high-quality business in North Texas, with Jeffrey stepping in as a long-term, hands-on owner-operator.
Ironwood is not a fund — it is a committed owner-operator focused on preserving the legacy, culture, and employees of the acquired business. The firm targets companies with a minimum of $500,000 in seller’s discretionary earnings, particularly in essential services, light manufacturing, and B2B services.
Founder
Jeffrey Dietz
Born and raised in Dallas, Jeffrey founded ISG with deep roots and a strong commitment to the DFW community. Jeffrey earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Texas at Austin and went on to receive his law degree from SMU’s Dedman School of Law. Prior to Ironwood Search Group, Jeffrey practiced transactional law with a focus on mergers and acquisitions and real estate, advising clients across a range of complex business dealings. Jeffrey comes from a family of entrepreneurs—his grandfather, Robert Dedman, founded ClubCorp Inc. in the 1950s—instilling his passion for building and growing great businesses into Jeffrey at a young age. Through entrepreneurship by acquisition, Jeffrey aims to carry his family legacy forward by acquiring and operating an established business serving the DFW area. His ultimate mission is to invest in the businesses that form the backbone of this community, ensuring their survival and success for years to come.