Irene Liu joined Advent in 2022 and is a Managing Director in Shanghai. She advises on investments in the business & financial services sector and has advised on 10 investments during her career, two while at Advent.
Prior to joining Advent, Irene spent 12 years with Apax Partners, where she was a principal on the internet and consumer sector team. She has successfully closed transactions across the business & financial services, internet, and consumer sectors. Before Apax Partners, Irene worked at Morgan Stanley in the mergers, acquisitions, and restructuring group. She began her career as a consultant at McKinsey & Company, working in both China and the US.
Irene holds a BA in International Economics from Fudan University, an MSc in Finance and Economics from the London School of Economics and Political Science, and an MBA from Harvard Business School.
What’s distinctive about the way Advent does business in China?
The approach in China aligns with Advent’s global strategy, focusing on the same five sectors. Our team in China seeks to collaborate with management and founders to achieve their strategic goals and transformational changes within their businesses.
How do you partner with management teams?
Advent works toward alignment with management on their vision, aiming for shared ambitions to elevate the business. We strive to be complementary partners, adding value with unique contributions. Effective communication is crucial. Advent invests time in understanding management teams that we work with both professionally and personally, including their families and values. This cultural diligence is essential for driving meaningful changes in a business.
What motivates you to keep driving yourself on and improving your performance?
You’re never bored in this business. We constantly encounter new situations and meet new people. With every investment and target, I learn alongside the team, seizing fresh opportunities daily. It gives me a great sense of satisfaction to witness the impact of our value creation plan on both the business and its people. This collaboration and growth with management is highly rewarding for me and the team.
“It gives me a great sense of satisfaction to witness the impact of our value creation plan on both the business and its people.”
Irene Liu
Managing Director, Advent
Was there anything that surprised you about the culture at Advent?
A colleague once noted that the emphasis on “investment” culture at Advent is distinguished by the resources and commitment people are willing to dedicate to opportunities. I found this true, with the Investment Committee being open-minded, supportive and guiding the team throughout the process. This commitment is crucial, regardless of the office location.
Private equity is a demanding, high-pressure business. How do you keep yourself grounded?
We’re fortunate to do this work and must remember to seek help when challenges arise. Asking for assistance doesn’t indicate weakness; rather, it shows openness and a willingness to listen and to discuss issues. I’m always available to talk and learn from almost anyone I speak to.
