Helping a Senior Executive Transition into the Private Equity Sector

Client

A leading European private equity firm had recently acquired a diversified hospitality portfolio. They needed an experienced, strategic executive to take on a hybrid operational and board facing role within one of their key assets. The ideal profile: a C-level leader with global hotel expertise and the ability to scale post-acquisition, but someone who could step in quietly, due to sensitive internal restructuring.

Approach

CourtesyMasters worked discreetly and surgically. We knew this wasn’t about public job boards or traditional searches. Instead, we activated our senior level network, identifying a well respected executive who had recently exited a global hotel brand.

What stood out? His deep operational roots, calm leadership style, and natural rapport with ownership groups. He was intrigued, not only by the challenge but also by the opportunity to contribute at a board and investor level while remaining rooted in hospitality.

To minimize disruption, early conversations were held off-record. We advised both client and candidate on private equity cultural fit, investor dynamics, and realistic expectations on transformation timelines.

Result

The executive transitioned smoothly into a leadership role at one of the PE firm’s premium assets. From the first 90 days, he delivered operational improvements and secured internal buy-in for long term initiatives. His presence stabilized the organization during transition and brought strategic clarity across multiple departments.

Today, he holds dual accountability, internally as a trusted GM and externally as a sounding board for the firm’s broader hospitality investments.

Impact

- Executive placement completed within 45 days

- Maintained full discretion throughout transition

- Career transformation from traditional corporate into private equity leadership

- Portfolio asset performance and trust improved under new executive