Private Equity Podcast: Karma School of Business

Thoughts on Lower Middle Market Private Equity with Michael Rubel

Oct 16, 2024

In this engaging conversation, Mike Rubel, Managing Partner at RFE Investment Partners and a veteran of both investment banking and private equity, shares his impactful journey in the finance world. He discusses the importance of discovering unique companies in traditional sectors and nurturing talent within teams. Emphasizing the critical role of culture, Mike highlights how cohesive teams can drive success and the necessity of aligning incentives to empower employees. His insights provide a fascinating look into the intricacies of lower middle market private equity.

36:40

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Episode guests

Mike Rubel

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Episode notes

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Quick takeaways

Identifying unique companies with innovative approaches is crucial in private equity, particularly within traditional industries for long-term success.

Cultivating a strong company culture significantly impacts recruitment, retention, and overall performance in private equity-backed businesses.

Deep dives

Mike Rubel's Journey into Private Equity

Mike Rubel's entry into the private equity industry stemmed from a traditional path starting in investment banking. Initially drawn to the stock market, he joined the boutique investment bank Harris Williams, which specialized in private equity advisory. This experience exposed him to the unique dynamics of private equity, emphasizing personal connections and deeper involvement with businesses compared to hedge funds. His tenure at Harris Williams, known for revolutionizing the M&A process through competitive marketing strategies, laid a strong foundation for his future success in private equity.

Intro

2min

Navigating Private Equity: Lessons from the Hedge Fund Transition

14min

The Critical Role of Culture in Private Equity Success

3min

Empowering Growth Through People

6min

Navigating Growth and Uncertainty in Private Equity

5min

Navigating Performance in Uncertain Times

5min

Navigating Career Transformations and the Power of Connections

3min

Join Sean Mooney in this episode of the Karma School of Business as he sits down with Mike Rubel, Managing Partner at RFE Investment Partners. With a career that spans from the bustling floors of investment banking to the strategic realm of private equity, Mike shares his journey into an industry where personal connections and market dynamics play a pivotal role. This conversation delves into Mike's early experiences at Harris Williams, his brief exploration of the hedge fund world, and his ultimate passion for the personal nature of private equity. Listen as Mike discusses the importance of finding unique companies, nurturing talent, and the critical role of culture in driving success within portfolio companies.

Episode Highlights:

1:03 - Welcome and introduction to Mike Rubel's unique path to private equity.
5:17 - Exploring Mike Rubel's naval family tradition and its influence on his career.
10:14 - The significance of finding unique companies in traditional industries.
18:38 - Mike Rubel's approach to value creation and the role of human capital.
29:48 - The importance of culture and incentives in driving business success, and Mike's advice for enjoying the journey.

For more information on RFE Investment Partners, go to https://www.rfeip.com/

For more information on Mike Rubel, go to https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-rubel-79820b2

For more information on BluWave and this podcast, go to https://www.bluwave.net/podcasts

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