In 2022, Bill co-founded Black Dog Capital Partners with his son, Billy Pettit. The father-son duo formed Black Dog with two primary objectives in mind: (i) to help owners and operators maximize the value of their existing senior housing assets through individually tailored consulting engagements; and, (ii) to raise capital, develop, and ultimately manage, assets in the emerging active adult asset class.

Pettit joined R.D. Merrill in 1992 after 18 years in the banking industry. He was instrumental in the formation of Merrill Gardens, starting with one community in 1993. He directed the rapid growth and timely execution of acquisitions, and developed the policies that speak to the Merrill Gardens commitment to quality. It was his leadership that turned Merrill Gardens into one of the most respected independent and assisted living operators in the country.

Under Pettit’s leadership, the Better Business Bureau named Merrill Gardens the Business of the Year for its commitment to residents, team members, and community service. The Family Business Institute named Merrill Gardens the Washington State Family Business of the Year three times in the past ten years. Merrill Gardens was chosen based on innovative business strategies, company performance, and contributions to the community. Merrill Gardens received a Finalist Award in the American Business Awards in the Innovative Business Practices category.

Pettit received a bachelor’s degree from Princeton in 1971 and a M.B.A. from the University of Oregon in 1973. He is a past Senior Living Executive in Residence for Washington State University teaching courses in Senior Living Management. He serves on the Assisted Living Federation of America (ALFA) Board of Directors and he is the past Chairman of the Executive Board of the American Seniors Housing Association (ASHA).