Strong sponsor-executive partnerships are a crucial lever to achieving maximum value creation. However, every sponsor defines partnership differently. The fund-level interview stage is the best time to learn about a sponsor’s partnership style and determine whether an opportunity represents an optimal governance fit.
“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
Presenting yourself both compellingly and authenticity increases your chances of identifying your fit and discovering what “partnering with management” really means to your potential next sponsor — before a fundamental mismatch occurs.
For deeper insights on how to interview effectively with both recruiters and funds, check out PE-CXO’s Interview Guide for Executives.
Dive Deep During Interviews to Determine Fit
Determining alignment starts with asking the right questions — but it doesn’t end there. Transparent communication is important to maintain with sponsors throughout the hold period. That transparency should begin before you enter the 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-backed CFO. “I ask: Tell me about the last time you had a disagreement with one of your portfolio companies. How did you work through that? Tell me about the last time you proposed an idea to one of your management teams that t...