

Stefan Kaluzny – Sycamore Partners [Manager Meetings, EP.16]
Oct 21, 2021
Kim Lew, the President and CEO of Columbia Investment Management Company, and Stefan Kaluzny, Founder of Sycamore Partners, delve into the intricacies of private equity. They discuss the blend of personal relationships and objective analysis during due diligence, sharing insights on evolving investment strategies. Kaluzny reveals the challenges of building Sycamore with a sector-focused approach. They explore the retail landscape's transformation, emphasizing technology's role and the necessity of clear communication in business. Their reflections also touch on patience and valuable life lessons.
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Kim Lew's Relationship with Stefan Kaluzny
- Kim Lew's prior relationship with Stefan Kaluzny at Golden Gate Capital provided valuable insights during times of uncertainty.
- This prior relationship influenced her due diligence process when Kaluzny started Sycamore Partners.
Navigating Potential Conflicts of Interest
- Be transparent about potential conflicts of interest and establish clear boundaries in the due diligence process.
- Focus on areas of concern and potential weaknesses of the manager to ensure a thorough evaluation.
Re-Underwriting Existing Managers
- Re-underwriting requires understanding how managers adapt to changing market conditions.
- Assess how their risk profile has evolved with success and life changes.