The Operating Partner

The role of the Operating Partner in Private Equity is a relatively new creation. In fact, it is only over the course of the last decade that it seems to have gained more widespread adoption across the asset class. As with anything new, we don’t yet have any uniform agreement on exactly what an Operating Partner does. Defining the role remains tricky particularly because so many firms see it as meaning vastly different things. During my career, I have had the opportunity to work with more than 60 different PE shops as they have sought out Operating Partner talent around the world. I’ve interviewed thousands of sitting and prospective Operating Partners; and have also spoken with hundreds of the GPs and LPs who are reliant on their contribution. I hope that this blog can serve the community of Operating Partners in PE as it sheds light on some of the various issues that people deal with in that chosen career. Perhaps it can be a resource for aspiring Ops Partners and occasionally bring some value to those with more tenure in the actual role. As always, I invite your comment and contribution as we explore these topics. Don’t be shy about giving me your point of view or suggesting topical areas to cover.