Private Equity Spotlight: From Lending to Leading with Gretchen Perkins
Private Equity Podcast: Karma School of Business
- 190 views
- 7 days ago
- 38:48
In this episode of the "Karma School of Business Podcast," host Sean Mooney sits down with Gretchen Perkins, Partner and Head of Business Development at Avance Investment Management, for an illuminating discussion on her unique journey into the private equity world. Gretchen shares insights from her transition from commercial lending to a pivotal role in shaping the business development landscape within private equity. This conversation delves into the evolution of the private equity industry, highlighting how specialized roles like business development have become crucial in driving firms' success. Episode Highlights: 0:54 - Gretchen's Entry into Private Equity: Gretchen recounts her path from commercial lending to becoming a trailblazer in private equity business development, emphasizing the serendipity and strategic networking that propelled her career forward. 6:02 - Learning from the Best: Discover how Gretchen honed her business development skills by shadowing industry pioneers, underscoring the importance of mentorship and community within private equity. 9:12 - Personal Influences: Gretchen reflects on how her upbringing as a minister's daughter and her mother's community involvement instilled in her the values of leadership and networking that have defined her professional ethos. 14:21 - Identifying Investment Opportunities: Gretchen discusses Avance Investment Management's thematic approach to investing, focusing on sectors with strong growth potential and management teams that exhibit coachability and vision. 24:17 - Value Creation and Team Dynamics: Explore Avance's strategic use of specialized functions, including research and human capital, to enhance portfolio companies' growth and operational efficiency from the outset. 27:21 - Navigating Market Trends: Gretchen shares her perspective on seizing value creation opportunities across various sectors by leveraging Avance's thematic investment strategy and operational expertise. 31:45 - Life Hacks for Balance and Efficiency: Gretchen offers personal insights into the benefits of meditation for managing stress and enhancing focus, as well as a practical tip for optimizing travel planning through Google Flights. For more information on Avance Investment Management, go to www.avanceinv.com For more information on Gretchen Perkins, go to www.linkedin.com/in/gretchenbperkins For more information on BluWave and this podcast, go to www.bluwave.net/podcasts This episode provides a comprehensive look at Gretchen Perkins' journey and contributions to the private equity industry, offering valuable lessons on business development, strategic investment, and personal growth. Whether you're a seasoned investor, an aspiring private equity professional, or simply interested in the mechanics of successful business strategies, Gretchen's story and insights offer inspiration and actionable advice.
Private Equity Spotlight: Shaping the Future of Software with Carl Press from Thoma Bravo
Private Equity Podcast: Karma School of Business
- 220 views
- 14 days ago
- 45:26
In this episode of the "Karma School of Business Podcast," host Sean Mooney engages with Carl Press, a seasoned partner at Thoma Bravo, to delve into the intricate world of private equity within the software industry. This discussion offers a unique opportunity to understand Thoma Bravo's strategic approach to identifying potential, fostering leadership, and driving value creation across their portfolio companies. Listeners will gain insights into the critical factors that guide investment decisions and the methodologies that have solidified Thoma Bravo's reputation as a leader in the private equity space. Episode Highlights: [00:00:32] Carl's Journey into Private Equity: Carl Press shares his transition from an engineering background to a pivotal role in private equity, highlighting his passion for technology and finance. [00:03:59] Leadership in Focus: The conversation explores the paramount importance of strong leadership in private equity investments, providing Carl's perspective on the traits that define a great CEO. [00:07:39] Investment Philosophy of Thoma Bravo: Carl outlines the firm's dedicated focus on enterprise software and the key criteria that guide their investment decisions. [00:18:18] Strategies for Value Creation: An in-depth look at Thoma Bravo's comprehensive approach to value creation, emphasizing the role of operational support in driving portfolio company success. [00:27:55] Advice for Navigating Economic Uncertainty: Carl shares practical advice for portfolio companies to effectively manage through challenging economic periods. [00:37:24] Personal Growth and Influential Reads: Reflecting on personal growth, Carl shares impactful reading recommendations and the importance of trusting one's instincts. For more information on Thoma Bravo, go to www.thomabravo.com. For more information on Carl Press, go to www.linkedin.com/in/carlpress. For more information on BluWave and this podcast, go to www.bluwave.net/podcasts. This episode not only provides a behind-the-scenes glimpse into Thoma Bravo's strategic operations but also offers valuable lessons on leadership, decision-making, and customer-centric strategies in the software sector. Whether you're an investor, executive, or someone keen on understanding the dynamics of successful business growth in private equity, this conversation with Carl Press is packed with actionable insights and thoughtful reflections on navigating the complexities of the industry.
Private Equity Insights: Q1 2024, Charging Through the Storm
Private Equity Podcast: Karma School of Business
- 210 views
- 21 days ago
- 26:09
Explore the private equity landscape of early 2024 with Sean Mooney, founder and CEO of BluWave, in this insightful episode of the "Karma School of Business Podcast." Utilizing BluWave's extensive data, Sean offers a deep dive into the latest trends, strategic shifts, and economic indicators shaping the private equity sector. This episode provides a detailed analysis of how private equity firms are positioning themselves for growth amidst evolving economic conditions. Episode Breakdown: 02:09 - The Buffalo Strategy: Sean explains the unique strategy of the American bison during storms as a metaphor for private equity firms' approach to economic challenges. 04:17 - Economic Indicators and Predictions: Examines key economic metrics such as GDP growth, inflation rates, and unemployment figures, shedding light on private equity's response. 07:18 - Sector-Specific Insights: Discusses the significant increase in activity within the manufacturing and healthcare sectors, signaling a strategic realignment towards previously less favored industries. 09:38 - Technology and Value Creation: Highlights the surge in technology investments, emphasizing ERP and CRM systems, as firms prepare for an AI-driven future. 11:55 - Human Capital Trends: Analyzes trends in hiring, with a focus on senior-level and growth-oriented executives, indicating a strategic pivot towards expansion. 13:39 - Looking Ahead: Reviews predictions for 2024, assessing their accuracy and outlining emerging trends and factors to watch in the private equity sector. 18:44 - Data Science in Private Equity: Sean discusses the growing importance of data scientists within private equity firms, driven by the need for advanced data analysis and predictive modeling. 21:19 - The Role of Marketing in PE: Explores the emerging trend of incorporating marketing expertise into private equity teams, highlighting its importance in brand building and deal sourcing. To request the report, go to www.bluwave.net/insights-report This episode is an essential listen for anyone interested in understanding the dynamics of the private equity industry in 2024. Through a detailed analysis of economic indicators, sector trends, and strategic investments, Sean Mooney offers valuable insights into how private equity is adapting and thriving in a complex economic environment.
Private Equity Spotlight: The Art of the Deal with OpenGate's Josh Adams
Private Equity Podcast: Karma School of Business
- 210 views
- 28 days ago
- 36:07
In this episode of the "Karma School of Business Podcast," host Sean Mooney sits down with Josh Adams, Partner at OpenGate Capital, to explore the intricacies of the private equity industry. This conversation sheds light on the strategic and operational approaches that drive success in private equity investments, particularly focusing on corporate carve-outs and global market navigation. Episode Highlights: 1:05 - Josh Adams' Journey: Josh shares his unconventional path into private equity, from his beginnings in South Wales to becoming a partner at OpenGate Capital. 07:59 - Personal Insights: Josh discusses his Welsh heritage and how it influences his professional outlook and approach to private equity. 10:43 - Industry Challenges: The conversation turns to the current challenges in the private equity market, including capital raising and deployment strategies. 18:00 - Strategic Focus: Josh elaborates on OpenGate Capital's focus on industrials and corporate carve-outs, detailing the importance of specialization and operational excellence. 24:47 - Global Approach: Insights into OpenGate Capital's global strategy, emphasizing the benefits of an internationally experienced team and cross-border investments. 29:40 - Adapting to Market Changes: Josh discusses how OpenGate Capital has refined its investment strategies to navigate a tough market environment effectively. For more information about OpenGate Capital, go to www.opengatecapital.com For more information on Josh, go to www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-m-adams-70602126 For more information on BluWave and this podcast, go to www.bluwave.net/podcasts This episode provides a deep dive into the strategies, challenges, and successes that define the private equity landscape, offering valuable lessons for investors and industry professionals alike. Join us for a closer look at the operational and strategic excellence behind OpenGate Capital's success in the private equity sector. Listeners will gain actionable insights into navigating the complexities of private equity, making informed investment decisions, and understanding the critical role of operational expertise in achieving long-term success.