Beyond the Big Names

Other than the MF's like BX/KKR, etc, what are some of the most reputable (successful, respectable and well known etc) PE funds?

Also what are the benefits of working at a MF? Other than the clout, is there a substantial difference in exits? I understand why people go for the brand names with banking, but is it crucial for PE recruiting to emphasize the big names?

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Blackstone, KKR, Warburg, Carlyle, Apollo, Bain, Apax, H&F, Silverlake, CD&R, CVC, Permira, Oaktree, Silverlake, L Catterton, Advent, Leonard Green, Golden Gate, Thomas H Lee, Goldman PIA, Providence, Cerberus, AEA, Crestview, GTCR, Onex, Stone Point, TA Associates, New Mountain, Madison Dearborn, Berkshire Partners, Audax, HIG, Ares, Lindsay Goldberg, Centerbridge, Towerbrook, Veritas, Vista

Top candidates would likely be glad to accept the majority of the above. Point is that there are more than enough to name.

As an aside, CD&R recent raised a $10bn fund, H&F is targeting a $16bn fund, Permira is targeting a $12bn fund, Vista raised $11bn, Silverlake raised $15bn... These are all megafund territory, so things are not as black / white as things appear.

 

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