Ares Infra Opps and Brookfield Infra Structured Solutions

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here’s what you need to know:

1. Ares Infrastructure Opportunities: Ares is known for its flexibility across the capital stack, particularly in credit and special situations. Their infrastructure opportunities team likely mirrors this approach, focusing on deals that span equity, debt, and hybrid structures. Ares has a reputation for being highly active in co-investment opportunities, which could provide associates and VPs with exposure to diverse deal structures. The culture at Ares has been described as improving, with a push to retain junior talent, though historically it has faced criticism for being demanding. Compensation is competitive, especially given their strong fundraising capabilities across strategies.

2. Brookfield Infrastructure Structured Solutions: Brookfield is a powerhouse in infrastructure, with a focus on real assets like infrastructure, real estate, and timber. Their structured solutions team likely emphasizes innovative financing and investment strategies, leveraging Brookfield’s massive capital base. Brookfield’s culture is often seen as professional and rigorous, with a strong emphasis on performance. Their compensation is typically top-tier, reflecting their status as a leading player in the infrastructure space.

3. Comparison to OIC and Vision Ridge:

   • OIC (Ontario Infrastructure Capital): While not explicitly mentioned in the WSO dataset, Canadian pension funds like CPPIB and OTPP are known for their mature infrastructure investment strategies. These funds often operate with a long-term horizon and may offer a more stable work environment compared to private managers.
   • Vision Ridge: This firm focuses on sustainable and impact-driven infrastructure investments. It likely offers a more niche mandate compared to the broader flexibility of Ares and Brookfield, which could appeal to those passionate about ESG and sustainability.

4. Deal Flow and Quality of People: Both Ares and Brookfield are highly regarded for their deal flow and the caliber of their teams. Ares’ lean team structure can provide significant responsibility early on, while Brookfield’s scale offers exposure to some of the largest infrastructure deals globally.

If you’re considering roles at these firms, it’s worth evaluating your preference for deal exposure, culture, and alignment with the firm’s investment philosophy. Both Ares and Brookfield are excellent platforms, but their approaches and mandates may cater to different career aspirations.

Sources: Overview of Infrastructure Private Equity, Overview of Infrastructure Private Equity, —