Partnership is crucial to every sponsor/management relationship. However, every sponsor has a different definition of what that partnership entails. The interview stage is the best time to learn about a sponsor’s partnership style and determine whether an optimal governance fit exists.
Read more about defining optimal governance fit in our Top 50 Private Equity Firms For Executives 2023 Report
“Don’t be afraid to not get the job. If they don’t like what you have to say, you wouldn’t want to be there anyway.”
— Rob Huxtable, Falcon partner
Follow these best practices to help guide you throughout the hiring process. By presenting yourself in a favorable yet authentic light, you are more apt to determine suitability and discover what “partnering with management” really means to your potential next sponsor.
Dive Deep During Interviews to Determine Fit
Determining alignment starts with asking the right questions — but it doesn’t end there. Transparent communication is a best practice to maintain with sponsors throughout a hold period. Start that transparency before you begin your role. Be upfront and intentional with your questions and responses. Always ask the sponsor to define their partnership style with specific examples.
“Ask the sponsor pointed questions; don’t let them give you generic responses,” recommends Heather Zorge, multi-exited, PE-backe...