On Thursday the 12^th July, John Gnodde, a director of Brait, who has overall responsibility of their Private Equity funds, provided Club members and their guests with an insight into what is often perceived by outsiders to be an esoteric form of finance, akin to “corporate raiders”. He demystified the way that private equity firms work and the motives for their activities.

Mr Gnodde, expanded on a point that has been emphasized by management consultants and market guru’s for many years: “Turn managers into owners” and the results can be spectacular. Private equity’s role in redefining corporate strategy and focus and shaking up lethargic management are critical elements of its success.

As is the Club custom, the lunch and presentation were subject to the Chatham House Rule, which preserves the confidentiality of the speaker, thereby permitting a frank and open discussion.

When the Business Club has a speaker at The Rand Club, we always find the talk to be very informative and this event gave members and their guests a good insight into one of the most talked about business trends in the market today.