Breaking into the private equity (PE) world—especially in the Lower Middle Market (LMM) and Middle Market (MM)—requires more than operational expertise; it demands access to decision-makers, mastery of PE-specific strategies, and a network to match. BlackmoreConnects offers two paths to executives: the comprehensive Full Conference experience and the Lite Version, an entry-level introduction to the ecosystem.

This manual compares these two options and explores how BlackmoreConnects helps you become competitive for roles in PE-owned companies, from C-suite positions to board memberships and advisory roles.

1. Depth of Engagement: Full Conference attendees gain direct introductions to PE firms and access to workshops tailored to their needs, while Lite participants observe panel discussions and receive limited interaction.
2. Networking Potential: The Full Conference allows meaningful connections with executives and PE firms, while the Lite Version offers a broad overview without personal introductions.

• • • Investment Partners: Make hiring decisions based on alignment with their investment thesis.
    • Operating Partners: Seek executives who can implement operational improvements.
    • Board Members: Play a critical role in recruiting executives with strategic insight.
    • Portfolio Company Teams: Hire C-suite leaders for transformative leadership.

• • Lack of industry-specific PE knowledge.
  • Misaligned strategies or resumes that don’t reflect PE expectations.
  • Minimal access to PE networks and decision-makers.

• C-Suite (CEO, CFO, COO): Executives leading operational turnarounds.
• Board Membership: Strategic advisors with governance expertise.
• Advisory and Consulting: Specialized roles during M&A or portfolio transformations.
• Operating Partners: Hands-on leadership for value creation.

1. Direct Introductions: Build relationships with 200+ PE firms.
2. Access to PE Panels: Learn directly from managing and operating partners.
3. Sector-Specific Opportunities: Meet firms in your industry focus area.
4. Expanded Executive Network: Engage with 30–50 executives per conference.
5. One-on-One Connections: Gain personalized introductions during the Full Conference.

6. Resume Refinement: Tailor your resume for PE decision-makers.
7. Investment Thesis Development: Align your expertise with PE strategies.
8. Mock Interviews: Prepare for PE-specific questions on KPIs and growth plans.
9. Industry Research: Get deep insights into sectors like manufacturing, healthcare, or tech.
10. Leadership Skills: Understand what PE firms expect from C-suite leaders.

11. Valuation Multiples: Learn how to discuss EBITDA and enterprise value effectively.
12. Cultural Fit Analysis: Discover which firms align with your leadership style.
13. Exit Strategy Alignment: Prepare for roles with a clear focus on PE exit plans.
14. Operational KPIs: Build a track record with PE-relevant metrics.
15. Due Diligence Skills: Master the art of evaluating deals like a PE insider.

16. Faster Placements: Land roles more quickly with BlackmoreConnects introductions.
17. Comprehensive Resources: Save on tools like PitchBook ($28,000) and Cyndx ($18,000).
18. Guided Networking: Avoid wasting time on unproductive outreach.
19. ROI Measurement: Compare your investment in conferences to career opportunities gained.
20. Resource Access: Leverage Blackmore’s databases for industry intelligence.

21. Recurring Opportunities: Build lasting relationships with PE firms.
22. Wealth Creation: Learn to negotiate equity and compensation packages.
23. Role Expansion: Transition from operational to strategic leadership.
24. Skill Development: Stay current on industry trends and PE expectations.
25. Professional Credibility: Enhance your reputation through consistent engagement.

26. Low-Cost Entry: Access PE panels for ~$500.
27. PE Firm Overview: Gain insights into the firms’ approaches and needs.
28. Networking Preview: Observe how executives build relationships during conferences.
29. Introductory Training: Understand the basics of PE recruiting without a full commitment.
30. Time Commitment: Shorter sessions fit busy schedules.

31. No Compass: Without guidance, you risk targeting irrelevant firms or roles.
32. Minimal Network: Cold emails rarely result in meaningful connections.
33. Knowledge Gaps: Lack of PE-specific training leads to missed opportunities.
34. High Costs: Tools like PitchBook and Cyndx are expensive without a strategy.
35. Lost Time: Inefficient efforts delay your career advancement.

36. Comprehensive Exposure: Engage deeply with PE professionals.
37. Mentorship Opportunities: Work with industry veterans to refine your strategy.
38. Real-Time Feedback: Improve your pitch and approach with expert input.
39. Strategic Networking: Build relationships that lead to roles with equity.
40. Measurable Results: Track your progress from introductions to offers.

41. Leadership Insight: Learn what PE firms value in their portfolio leaders.
42. Exit-Oriented Thinking: Prepare for roles where creating enterprise value is paramount.
43. Industry Expertise: Position yourself as a thought leader in your field.
44. Risk Mitigation: Avoid costly mistakes during interviews and due diligence.
45. Actionable Takeaways: Leave with a clear plan for your next steps.

46. Community of Executives: Share insights with like-minded professionals.
47. Repeat Engagements: Build relationships over multiple conferences.
48. Targeted Training: Focus on industries or roles that match your expertise.
49. Custom Introductions: Personalized connections based on your profile.
50. Proven Results: Success stories of executives who landed PE roles.