Private Equity Coaches, Events, and Resources

I’ve worked in the private equity industry over 6 years, leading end-to-end deal processes at a middle market firm. I’ve sourced and diligenced deals, sat on boards, and partnered with founders post-close to drive growth and operational improvements. Before that, I worked at a high-growth startup, which gives me a unique operator-investor lens that many in PE don’t have. I coach because I know firsthand how hard it can be to break into (or advance within) private equity — especially without the “standard” background. Whether you’re navigating recruiting, prepping for interviews, or trying to figure out how to tell your story, I can help you cut through the noise and focus on what really moves the needle. I've worked with candidates from banking, consulting, search funds, and even non-traditional backgrounds — and I tailor my approach to your goals and trajectory.

Four years of private equity experience across all sectors and deal sizes. Varied transaction experience ranging from primary investments to mature leveraged buyouts. I've also worked in a recruiting and interviewing capacity across both firms I've worked at. I've hustled for every job I've gotten and firmly view this industry as network driven. Being strategic with your networking, interviewing, and approach to investing can yield significant advances in your career journey. At each step, I've enjoyed giving back to those on a similar path as me, and have observed what works and what doesn't work at each career juncture, from undergrad to experienced lateral moves. Reach out for an introduction call and let's get started!

With hands-on experience working in Morgan Stanley’s Real Estate Private Equity group in New York City, I bring a deep understanding of what it takes to break into and excel in private equity. Across two summers and into my full-time role, I underwrote over 40 deals across multiple asset classes during a period of rapid market change, navigating rising interest rates, open-end fund redemption queues, and the resurgence of large-cap fundraising. I know firsthand what top firms are looking for — from technical skills like modeling and deal evaluation to the soft skills needed to thrive in a fast-paced investment environment. Whether you're preparing for interviews, looking to sharpen your real estate or private equity knowledge, or trying to break into the industry, I’m here to help you get there with practical advice, real-world insight, and a clear plan tailored to your goals.

Hey! My name is Milton, and although I'm originally from the East Coast, I've been living and working in Chicago for the last 2+ years. When I'm not working or coaching, I enjoy spending time cycling, climbing, or relaxing by the lake, as well as exploring the Midwest. I've been working in private equity for the past 2+ years and began my career in Big4 consulting before transitioning to investment banking. My goal in mentoring folks on Leland is to provide the foundation and mentorship I wish existed when I was making my way from a non-target school to investment banking, and ultimately to private equity. Over the years, I've had the privilege of coaching both students and young professionals, helping them navigate the complexities of IB and PE recruiting. Whether you're looking to break into private equity or advance your career in the field, I'm here to provide guidance and support. My coaching approach is collaborative and flexible, ensuring that you can get the most out of our time together. Don't hesitate to reach out, and let's see how we can partner together to take the next big step in your career.

After my time at Bain & Co, I moved to an Operating Partner role in a large Private Credit fund, where I lead our distressed turnarounds (similar to a PE turnaround). I work with all teams internally - Credit, Portfolio Management, and Origination - to manage and turnaround key portfolio companies and drive EBITDA improvements. I have deep experience with Private Equity / Private Credit interviews and recruiting.

With five years at General Atlantic, a leading global growth equity firm, I bring firsthand experience across the full private equity lifecycle—from sourcing and diligence to portfolio management. I’ve led investments in consumer sectors such as beauty, food & beverage, and pet care, deploying over $350M across six deals, and worked directly with founders, executives, and boards. This gives me a clear, practical understanding of what top firms look for in talent. Beyond investing, I’ve helped shape culture and mentorship at GA, launching a Women’s Fellowship Program and serving on leadership committees. I’ve also held roles in nonprofit and female investor networks, coaching young professionals along the way. Previously, as a Course Assistant in college, I earned a Distinction in Teaching. This blend of technical rigor and people-focused leadership drives my passion for coaching aspiring professionals in private equity.

I’m a life-longer learner and giver (through my experiences and my network). Happy to help those that are interested and navigating the path within Investment Banking or Private Equity. Friendly, approachable and always reachable/responsive!

Welcome to my profile! My professional experience in private equity began with a value creation role at Vista Equity Partners (~$100B AUM), where I honed my skills in implementing go-to-market growth initiatives for enterprise software companies. I specialized in Sales Strategy, Revenue Operations, & Customer Success, but engaged across a variety of sub-functions during my time at the firm. I went back to pursue my MBA at Chicago Booth and pivot to value creation roles in the middle-market investing space, and have spent time at both PSP Capital & Erie Street Growth Partners in Chicago as I broaden my value creation toolkit. If you are interested in learning about the skillset and networking required to land a role in the PE Ops / Value Creation space, I am happy to help you craft a personalized strategy based on your experience, investing sectors of interest, and size of firm you are targeting.

Coming from a non-traditional background, I understand how difficult it can be to break into investing. I'd love to work with you on a customized and tactical plan to help you get interviews and offers within an investing role.

I help candidates break into private equity with direct, practical prep. I have experience as a candidate and interviewer at US PE Large Cap funds. Former Hellman & Friedman PE investor, McKinsey Senior Associate and J.P. Morgan M&A; Harvard Business School MBA with Distinction. Currently advising software companies on M&A