Capital Allocators – Inside the Institutional Investment Industry Josh Koplewicz – Flexible Capital and Creative Structures at Thayer Street (EP.451)
22 snips
Jun 12, 2025 
Josh Koplewicz, Managing Partner of Thayer Street Partners, shares his journey from Goldman Sachs to founding a boutique private equity firm in 2012. He dives into strategic capital allocation, the challenges of scaling a smaller firm, and innovative investment structures that balance risk and reward. Josh discusses the importance of building relationships in finance and navigating market liquidity issues. With personal anecdotes about hiking and DJing, he reflects on his aspirations for future impact within his firm and its portfolio.
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Early Deal Structuring Experience
- Josh learned deal structuring quickly through hands-on complex deals early at Goldman Sachs.
- His experience with coordinating multi-faceted transactions built strong problem-solving skills.
GFC Lessons on Risk Management
- Downside risk management became critical through the Global Financial Crisis experience.
- Multiple ways to de-risk and exit were key lessons shaping his investing approach at Thayer Street.
Avoid Flawed Minority and Debt Deals
- Avoid minority deals without enforceable protections to ensure investor rights.
- Do not rely on ever-increasing prices in debt deals; plan for liquidation or workout.