In this episode
Join us for an insightful episode of Leadership Blueprint as we explore the dynamic world of private equity with Tony Couloubis, a veteran with over 25 years of global experience. Tony’s journey from a chartered accountant to a leader in major M&A transactions provides a wealth of knowledge for both aspiring and established professionals. His career highlights the challenges and rewards of navigating complex financial environments and executing successful turnarounds.
In this episode, Tony emphasizes the critical role of cultural adaptability in leadership, particularly in diverse global markets. He also discusses the transformative impact of AI on the private equity landscape, while underlining the enduring importance of human negotiation skills. Throughout the conversation, Tony shares his personal strategies for achieving a balance between intense professional demands and a fulfilling personal life, offering advice on maintaining humility and consistency in all endeavors.
At the end of the episode, Tony shares key takeaways for leaders. These insights aim to inspire and guide those aiming to make a big impact in their careers.
Sound bites
▶️ “Consistency is what gets you through the ups and downs.”
▶️ “Stay humble, because you never know when the next crisis will hit.”
▶️ “Invest in people—good relationships are the foundation of success.”
Advice for future leaders
▶️ Embrace Change and Adapt: Tony emphasizes that change is the only constant in the industry. Leaders must be adaptable and ready to evolve with shifting circumstances to stay ahead.
▶️ Focus on Core Strengths: In turnaround situations, Tony advises leaders to identify and concentrate on the core strengths of an organization. Eliminating distractions and non-essential activities allows for a more focused and effective recovery.
▶️ Value Ethical Leadership: Tony stresses the importance of ethical leadership and integrity in all business dealings. He believes that building trust and maintaining strong ethical standards are key to sustaining long-term relationships and success in the industry.
About Tony
Tony Couloubis is a seasoned professional in the world of alternative assets, boasting over 25 years of financial experience with a significant focus on private equity and principal investments. His career spans across multiple global markets, with a particular emphasis on pan-African investments, where he has played a crucial role in turnaround situations, investment management, M&A, and acting in joint CFO and COO roles. Tony’s expertise in cross-border transactions and his ability to recognize and nurture the potential of companies make him a highly respected figure in the industry.
Throughout his career, Tony has been instrumental in the success of several high-profile investment initiatives. He was part of the team at AIG Investments that co-managed the USD 400 million AIG African Infrastructure Fund, the largest private equity fund focusing on Africa. Tony’s leadership in various private equity roles, including his work with Harith, SPE Capital Partners, and Gulf Capital, has contributed to the growth and expansion of companies into new territories, enhancing their systems and generating significant financial and social gains.
In addition to his professional accomplishments, Tony is a founding partner in several companies, including GIG SA, an Edge Computing firm, and Paycasso Biometrics, a groundbreaking technology platform for global customer identification. His commitment to excellence is reflected in his track record of successful transactions, strategic planning, and his ability to lead teams through complex financial landscapes. Tony’s multilingual skills and deep understanding of diverse markets further underscore his capability as a global leader in the private equity space.
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