PEI Private Equity Spotlight The Exit Playbook: Starting with the exit journey in mind
Sep 22, 2026
A practical look at reverse-engineering investments from likely exit scenarios. Industry experts explore buyer expectations, strategic versus IPO exits, management upgrades, recurring revenue, and evidence of scalable performance. The discussion also covers technology, data infrastructure, cybersecurity, early buyer engagement, and how to build a credible value-creation story from day one.
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Work Backward From A Realistic Exit
- Reverse-engineer the exit from the desired outcome, then discount expected multiple expansion and timing.
- Build a long-term strategy that accounts for the investments required along the way.
Buyers Pay For Growth They Can Trust
- Buyers pay premiums for sustainable growth and clean assets they can underwrite quickly.
- An investment case should deliberately build both qualities rather than rely on market conditions.
Build The Exit Narrative Years Early
- Identify the likely next buyer at acquisition and build its preferred proof points early.
- KPI consistency, pricing governance, forecasting discipline, and retention tracking create evidence that cannot be invented during the final six months.