In this episode of FP&A Tomorrow , host Paul Barnhurst and co-host Glenn Snyder discuss the dynamic intersection of private equity and financial planning & analysis (FP&A). With private equity firms increasingly focused on operational value creation over financial engineering, this discussion offers valuable insights into the evolving expectations for FP&A teams within PE-backed companies. The conversation covers everything from deal flow trends and building high-performing FP&A functions to the nuances of trust, alignment, and data in the PE environment. Nate is a Senior Managing Director at Riveron Consulting, where he leads the private equity practice. With extensive experience supporting portfolio companies, Nate brings a sharp understanding of how to structure FP&A functions that drive value from early investment to exit. Jamie is Director of Financial Operations at Trivest Partners, a middle-market private equity fund. Jamie works closely with FP&A teams across Trivest’s portfolio, guiding companies through growth, transformation, and exit, with a clear focus on data-driven decision-making and operational excellence. Expect to Learn: How private equity firms are shifting from financial engineering to operational value creation. Why FP&A is becoming a core strategic partner in PE-backed companies. The importance of early investment in data, tech stacks, and FP&A infrastructure. The difference between corporate FP&A and PE-backed FP&A environments. What skills and traits do PE firms value most when hiring FP&A professionals? Here are a few quotes from the episode: “Private equity used to be all about financial engineering; now it’s about operational value creation.” - Jamie Lukaszewski “The most successful FP&A teams are the ones that align financial and operational KPIs to tell a complete story.” - Nate Heeren "You're not going to win many races with your legs tied together; you've got to be set up for success." - Nate Heeren Nate and Jamie shared thoughtful and practical insights into the evolving relationship between private equity and FP&A. They emphasized the growing importance of operational value creation, the foundational role of trust and alignment, and the need for robust data infrastructure to support strategic decision-making. Get Certified with the FPAC Credential Earn the only FP&A credential that proves your expertise and commitment to the profession. Use TheFPAGuy-FPAC for $150 off the Exam Use TheFPAGuy-FPACEPP for $100 off the Exam Prep Platform Learn more: https://www.thefpandaguy.com/fpa-certifications AFP FP&A Forum: All insights. Zero spin. March 23 – 25 in Indianapolis This immersive, three-day event is built for financial professionals, by financial professionals , and it’s designed to help you sharpen your skills, stay on top of trends, and connect with peers who understand your challenges. Learn more: https://www.financialprofessionals.org/events/meetings/afp-fp-a-forum Follow FP&A Tomorrow: Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=6957679529595162624 Follow Nate: LinkedIn -
