Private Equity in Germany - carrer move, taxation, equity stakes, lifestyle

Good morning,

I’m considering relocating to Germany for career opportunities. I currently work at a CPG company that was recently acquired by a private equity (PE) firm. With approximately five years of experience, I’ve received two offers from German companies in corporate development, and one from a relatively small firm in a town of ~200k residents. This smaller firm generates high single-digit EBITDA margins and I would hold a significant position within its corporate structure, with a strong focus on international operations.

Long-term, I envision myself either in a C-suite role at a middle-market firm or in private equity.

Taxation Question:
My initial offer includes a fixed salary + bonus, taxed at ~50%. However, I’m concerned about future equity-based compensation – paying 50% tax on illiquid shares seems impractical. How do PE professionals navigate this in Germany? I’ve read briefly about structures like "hurdle shares" – could these be relevant?

Additional Context:

• I’d appreciate insights into Germany’s PE landscape and corporate culture.
• My German is currently B2+; I aim to reach C1 by Q1 2026. I’m also fluent in French.

Thank you for your guidance,
Antoni