Employers
Thousands of firms actively manage private equity and private debt funds worldwide. Many are headquartered in the United States—typically in big cities such as New York, Boston, San Francisco, and Chicago.
According to Private Equity International, the world's five largest private equity firms in 2024 were:
- Blackstone (New York)
- KKR (New York)
- EQT (New York)
- CVC Capital Partners (Luxembourg)
- TPG (Fort Worth, TX)
In addition to employment in the PE industry, financial managers work in nearly every other industry, as well with nonprofit organizations and government agencies.
Starting Out
Many financial managers break into the field by first working as accountants and auditors at PE firms, accounting firms that provide services to PE firms, portfolio companies of PE firms, government regulating bodies, or the accounting/internal auditing departments of corporations. With time and experience, they eventually move into management positions.
To learn about job openings, network at job fairs and on social media, use the resources of your school’s career services office, contact recruiters, and visit employment sites such as https://www.efinancialcareers.com and https://www.jobsearchdigest.com/private-equity-jobs.
- Investment Underwriters
- Private Equity Accountants and Auditors
- Private Equity Business Development Directors
- Private Equity Chief Dealmakers
- Private Equity Compliance Professionals
- Private Equity Investor Relations Specialists
- Private Equity Lawyers
- Private Equity Marketing Specialists
- Private Equity Research Analysts and Associates
- Private Equity Risk Managers