MARCH 22 2024
Said Silvia Nasini, Investment Manager at Nordic Capital Advisors. Nordic Capital has grown substantially in recent years, with 230 professionals across all fund and advisory teams, spread across ten different countries. In this conversation, we sat down with Silvia Nasini, to gain insight into her role and why the PE-industry is a fascinating field for curious individuals.
Q: Can you describe a typical day or week for an Investment Manager at Nordic Capital Advisors?
A: The typical day is quite varied due to the diverse tasks involved. However, I would categorise the tasks into three main areas: work with existing Nordic Capital portfolio companies, ongoing projects, and sourcing new opportunities. What I find particularly thrilling about PE is the culture of ownership and responsibility.
Q: Before joining Nordic Capital Advisors, you worked in investment banking. What made you pursue a career within PE?
A: The opportunity to develop a comprehensive skill set and a genuine investor mindset attracted me to the PE industry. While banking provided a solid foundation, PE offers the opportunity for a long-term approach to business and investment, enabling the creation of stronger, more sustainable companies. Nordic Capital has a philosophy of "Owning Well", which means focusing on partnerships with portfolio companies to drive lasting value —a perspective that resonated with my career aspirations.
Q: What do you enjoy most about your role?
A: The ever-evolving nature of the work is truly stimulating. Each day presents a new challenge or opportunity to learn, fostering a sense of constant growth and curiosity. While it's challenging to pinpoint a typical day, the variety keeps things dynamic and engaging. Whether it's exploring a complex concept, or digging into a potential new investment, I appreciate the chance to expand my knowledge and skill set daily.
Q: Which sector or segment are you working mostly with? What are the trends within that sector right now?
A: I specialise in the healthcare sector, benefiting from the expertise of colleagues who are deeply rooted in the field. Nordic Capital has invested in this sector for 30 years now. Trends such as increased healthcare consumption and longevity shape our strategies, underscoring the sector's resilience.
Q: How would you describe the Nordic capital culture? What is it that you like about the team?
A: Nordic Capital fosters a high-performance, collaborative environment with a flat hierarchy that encourages open communication and learning. Here, everyone is on top of their game, and the expectation is that you are too. The emphasis on excellence is balanced with a supportive atmosphere that facilitates personal and professional development.
Q: What recommendations do you have for young talents aiming to join the Nordic Capital team and what skills and qualities do you think are important if you want to do a career in PE?
A: Curiosity and a hunger for continuous learning. Additionally, resilience and stamina are essential, given the demanding nature of PE. Starting with a background in banking or consulting provides a solid foundation for a career in PE, offering valuable insights and transferable skills.
Q: What are your long-term goals?
A: My long-term ambition revolves around developing deep sector expertise, recognising its importance in today’s competitive landscape. I want to hone my existing skill set to become a proficient investment professional, leveraging Nordic Capital’s expertise in healthcare investments. Being part of an advisory team with a rich history in the sector allows for invaluable learning opportunities, aligning with my curiosity and career aspirations.