Episode 80: Comparing Life as an Operator vs. Investor vs. Advisor with Robert Levin
Synopsis
Episode 80. The professional careers of many impressive people have spanned some combination of investing (or private equity), operating (and/or founding a business) and advising. But when and how do we consider the right balance and the right time for each?
In this episode of the Lifetime at Work podcast, host Greg Martin interviews Robert Levin, an M&A expert and founder of CIS Ventures. Levin shares his journey from working in various industries and founding companies to transitioning into private equity.
They discuss Levin's extensive experience, covering topics like the evolution of private equity, the opportunities in lower middle market businesses, raising capital, advisory roles, and the key differences between being an operator and investor. Levin also gives advice on how to navigate the intricacies of raising capital, the importance of having the right team, and strategic thinking, particularly in leveraging emerging technologies like AI.
The episode provides valuable insights for entrepreneurs, investors, and business operators looking to understand the complexities and opportunities within the private equity landscape.
00:00 Introduction to Lifetime at Work Podcast
00:23 Meet Robert Levin: From Founder to Private Equity
01:20 Robert's Early Life and Career Beginnings
04:01 Transition to Private Equity and Advisory Work
05:07 Understanding the Private Equity Landscape
10:12 Private Equity's Impact on Various Industries
13:27 Comparing Roles: Operator vs. Private Equity Investor
20:10 Future Opportunities in Private Equity
28:57 Challenges in Matching Investors and Businesses
29:43 Early Stage Struggles and Investor Expectations
31:22 Importance of People in Business Success
34:17 Recruiting vs. Hiring: Building the Right Team
37:15 Raising Capital: Strategies and Advice
44:53 Interviewing Investors: A Crucial Skill
49:43 Final Thoughts and Contact Information
Background and Key Links
Robert starting his career as an entrepreneur, founding three different companies all of which he exited
Later joined the private equity world, first as an associate and moving up in the organization
Today Robert is the founder of CIS Ventures, advising companies on strategy, consulting, M&A, divestitures and fundraising
Find Robert on Linked-In