European PE hiring rebounds with focus on value creation
.
.
Charlie Hunt, Managing Director, recently spoke with PitchBook about the current state of hiring across Europe’s private equity market.
He described a sector that is rebounding in 2025 but shifting away from bulk junior intake toward highly targeted, value-driven recruitment.
He described a sector that is rebounding in 2025 but shifting away from bulk junior intake toward highly targeted, value-driven recruitment.
Read the full article
“You no longer have to come to the UK to have a career in PE. The DACH market has grown enormously.”
Value creation over volume
Charlie Hunt, Managing Director, notes that while “everyone is talking about value creation and operating partners”, the reality is a mismatch between candidate appetite and the number of available roles. Senior professionals from consulting and corporate backgrounds are competing fiercely for transformation and operating partner positions, indicating the increasing attractiveness and demand for these skill sets.
AI, geography and the future of PE hiring
Charlie also sees AI as “a game-changer in waiting,” with firms experimenting cautiously but already recognising the need for talent that can bridge hype with practical systems. This is opening the door for professionals who can combine digital know-how with operational expertise.
On geography, he observes a shift away from London dominance: “You no longer have to come to the UK to have a career in PE. The DACH market has grown enormously.” With European hubs rising in prominence, opportunities are broadening for talent across Europe.
While Charlie acknowledges that ESG and DEI hiring has cooled, describing it as cyclical, he emphasises that these priorities are far from disappearing, and will likely re-emerge as deal activity picks up again.
Overall, Charlie is optimistic about the sector’s long-term trajectory “PE isn’t going anywhere. Future growth will depend on factors such as regulation or whether AI reduces the number of people needed."
While Charlie acknowledges that ESG and DEI hiring has cooled, describing it as cyclical, he emphasises that these priorities are far from disappearing, and will likely re-emerge as deal activity picks up again.
Overall, Charlie is optimistic about the sector’s long-term trajectory “PE isn’t going anywhere. Future growth will depend on factors such as regulation or whether AI reduces the number of people needed."
Click below to read Charlie's profile and find his contact details.
Charlie's profile
