By Kate Strzelczyk, Assistant Director at Chesapeake Search Partners
Throughout my career, I’ve had the opportunity to partner with private equity–backed companies across various industries and functions, including finance and accounting, marketing, operations, and HR. Regardless of the role, the pattern is clear: professionals who succeed in these environments share a distinct set of qualities that extend beyond technical expertise.
As Veronica Murphy, Sr. VP of People and Culture at Excelsia, explains:
“In private equity-backed companies, the people who thrive are those who stay flexible, build trust, and have the ability and willingness to balance being an individual contributor, leader, and strategist depending on what is needed in the moment to move the business forward towards achieving its short- and long-term goals.”
Veronica’s perspective reflects what I’ve consistently seen. Across various job functions and levels, the talent that stands out in PE-backed environments exhibits four key qualities: a roll-up-your-sleeves mentality, strategic thinking across functions, leadership that inspires action, and the ability to thrive in fast-paced environments.
A “Roll-Up-Your-Sleeves” Mentality
No matter your role, success in PE-backed settings requires a hands-on approach.
- Finance leaders may find themselves digging into reconciliations or cleaning up legacy systems.
- Marketers may be asked to rapidly test and scale campaigns with limited data.
- Operations professionals might need to redesign processes while hitting delivery deadlines.
In every case, the ability to step in, own the work, and deliver results without waiting for perfect conditions sets talent apart.
Strategic Thinking Across Functions
PE-backed firms value professionals who see beyond their job description. The strongest talent connects daily work to broader business goals and understands the ripple effect of decisions.
- A CFO links forecasting to pricing strategy and growth modeling.
- A marketing director builds campaigns with EBITDA and revenue impact in mind.
- An HR leader ties workforce planning directly to operational scalability.
This cross-functional perspective shows that you’re executing while simultaneously contributing to enterprise value.
Leadership That Inspires Action
Leadership is expected across all levels and functions, not just in the C-suite. Professionals who can unite teams, set priorities, and influence without authority are highly valued.
- A controller guiding teams through system changes.
- A sales manager rallying reps behind new revenue goals.
- A project leader aligning stakeholders during an integration.
The common thread: professionals who lead by example, communicate clearly, and keep momentum moving forward.
Thriving in Fast-Moving Environments
In private equity, change is the expectation. From acquisitions and restructurings to rapid scaling and market pivots, professionals are constantly asked to adjust and deliver in new conditions.
- Finance leaders may navigate shifting capital structures while still meeting reporting deadlines.
- Operations managers might be tasked with scaling processes overnight to support growth.
- Marketing teams could be rebranding or relaunching with aggressive timelines.
Those who remain adaptable, focused, and calm under pressure quickly earn trust and position themselves as steady drivers of progress in dynamic settings.
Key Takeaway
While responsibilities may differ in accounting, marketing, or operations, the qualities that matter most remain unchanged. PE-backed firms seek professionals who can roll up their sleeves, think strategically, lead with influence, and adapt to constant change. Across functions, those who bring these attributes consistently become the difference-makers who move companies forward.
Let’s Start the Conversation Around Your Search Strategy
For more than a decade, CSP has partnered with private equity–backed companies to navigate critical hires across finance, marketing, operations, and other key areas. We understand the pace, the pressure, and the potential of this environment. If you’re ready to strengthen your team or explore your own next move, contact us for guidance.