Rupert Bell has been appointed as the new CEO at PER

We are pleased to announce the appointment of Rupert Bell as our new CEO at PER. This strategic move aligns with our efforts to accelerate global expansion and reinforce our position as the go-to executive search firm for private equity and venture capital.

"Rupert's appointment as CEO marks a significant milestone in our company's journey. With his deep industry knowledge, strategic vision, and proven success in expanding our geographic footprint, he is the ideal leader to take us into our next phase of growth.”
Gail McManus, Founder
Driving growth and innovation

Rupert Bell, who has been instrumental in expanding our presence across Europe, will now lead us into the next chapter of growth. Under his leadership, we are set to strengthen our capabilities in placing senior executives and investment professionals across the entire spectrum of private markets roles, from partner to analyst positions, as well as C-suite roles.

“Rupert's appointment as CEO marks a significant milestone in our company's journey,” says Gail McManus, founder of PER. “With his deep industry knowledge, strategic vision, and proven success in expanding our geographic footprint, he is the ideal leader to take us into our next phase of growth.”
Decades of shaping private markets talent

Since founding PER in 1997, Gail has driven the expansion of PER, establishing us as a trusted partner in private markets. As she takes on an exciting new market-focused role, Gail will continue to infuse her unique energy and personality into initiatives like talent acquisition best practices, leadership assessment, compensation, DEI and individual career development.
Rupert Bell brings a wealth of experience to his new role

Having joined PER over a decade ago, Rupert has since established our presence across the DACH region, with offices in Munich, Frankfurt, and Zürich. Rupert has spearheaded numerous senior executive placements for international firms entering new markets, leveraging his background as a mid-market private equity investor at 3i, Sand Aire and Octopus to provide unparalleled insights into client needs.

Commenting on his new role, Rupert remarks: "I am excited to step into the role of CEO at a pivotal time for PER. As we continue our expansion into new markets, including North America and France, and as our client base returns to its own long-term growth trajectory, we have a tremendous opportunity in front of us.

Our mission remains clear: to connect exceptional talent with positions that shape the future of private markets, globally. I look forward to driving innovation and growth as we continue to serve our clients and candidates with unmatched dedication and expertise.

I would especially like to pay tribute to Gail McManus, our founder, for building such a distinctive business, based on expertise, genuine industry knowledge and a culture of long-term relationships, where candidates become clients. PER is a unique, trusted partner because of Gail's leadership and values, and I am honoured to be entrusted with the future stewardship of the group."

Gail McManus adds: "As I transition to a new role, I am thrilled to see Rupert step into the CEO position. His vision and dedication align perfectly with our core values, and I look forward to supporting him and the entire team as we continue to shape the future of this dynamic industry."
Click below to read Rupert's profile and find his contact details.

Rupert's profile