Permira, a global private equity firm, has announced a significant leadership transition effective September 1, 2024. Brian Ruder and Dipan Patel will assume roles as Co-Managing Partners and Co-CEOs, while Kurt Björklund will transition to Executive Chairman.

Brian Ruder, who joined Permira in 2008, has been instrumental in building the firm’s Technology sector team. He currently serves on the Executive Committee, chairs the Permira Growth Opportunities Investment Committee, and co-chairs the Buyout Funds Investment Committee. Ruder has played a key role in high-profile transactions involving companies like Ancestry, Genesys, and Zendesk.

Dipan Patel, who joined Permira in 2009, is Co-Head of the Consumer sector team and serves on both the Buyout Funds Investment Committee and the Executive Committee. Initially part of the Technology team, Patel transitioned to the Consumer team in 2018, driving digital-era consumer investments. His notable transactions include Adevinta, AllTrails, and The Knot Worldwide.

Kurt Björklund, the outgoing Managing Partner, praised Ruder and Patel for their contributions to Permira’s strategy, culture, and investment success over the past 15 years. He highlighted their extensive experience with 22 investments across various sectors, totaling approximately €17.5 billion in capital. Björklund emphasized that their promotion marks a new chapter in Permira’s leadership and commitment to stewardship.

Björklund’s tenure at Permira began in 2008 when he became Co-Managing Partner alongside Tom Lister, who retired in 2022. Björklund became the sole Managing Partner in 2021. During his 16-year tenure, Permira expanded its investment focus and product range in private equity and credit, nearly tripled its team size, and raised eight private equity funds and over 30 credit vehicles, representing approximately €60 billion in capital.

Ruder and Patel expressed their enthusiasm for their new roles, acknowledging the guidance of Kurt and previous Managing Partners. They emphasized Permira’s strategy of generating lasting returns by supporting and building exceptional businesses. Both leaders are excited to collaborate with Kurt, their partners, and colleagues worldwide to embark on the firm’s next chapter.