If you’re interested in working for a private equity backed company at a senior level, now may be a better time than ever to pursue that dream.

The UK private equity market experienced its busiest period in five years during the third quarter. In total, there were 107 buyouts between July and September compared to 79 in the same period last year. The third quarter, then, ranks as the busiest since the second quarter of 2009.

So, as firms are beginning to recover from the damage inflicted by financial crisis, the industry will be looking to invest again – and this means that strong leaders need to be available and ideally available very quickly.

But what are firms looking for?

Though mathematical wizardry and a thorough understanding of the most esoteric financial concepts are desirable, the critical skills required in a CEO are the ability to understand how private equity works and speak the language of the investors.

In order to gain the investors’ confidence, you must treat the board as part of the business. A solid grasp of key financial drivers and complete transparency will help to engage the board. 

Of course, experience at a big industry-relevant company may be essential; but, in a dynamic and shifting industry where the focus is often on the short-term (5 years), firms will also be looking for candidates with a strong entrepreneurial spirit and a sense of urgency.

Experience of moving from a large company to a smaller business and making is successful would be a huge advantage.

The investors may put a lot of pressure as, the expectations are very high and you must get used to a different rhythm of life. Therefore tolerance for change, risk and ambiguity are crucial.

CEOs of portfolio companies must motivate the team to achieve fast results and need to be doers (not just leaders) and they must be able to do more with less.

Do you think that you have the ability to benefit from the next wave of private equity investment? If so, why not get in touch?