The Harris Family Alternative Investments Program, the Private Equity & Venture Capital Club (PEVC Club), Undergrad Finance Club, and Investment Management Club (IM Club) welcomed Dan Zilberman, WG’01, global head of capital solutions and co-head of financial services at Warburg Pincus for a fireside chat.
On October 28, the Harris Family Alternative Investments Program, the Wharton Private Equity and Venture Capital Club (PEVC), Undergrad Finance Club, and the Wharton Investment Management Club (IM) hosted an engaging fireside chat with Dan Zilberman, global head of capital solutions and co-head of financial services at Warburg Pincus.
With a full room of engaged students, Dan Zilberman shared thoughtful reflections on his storied career in private equity, the evolving role of junior talent amid new technologies, and the importance of persistence in dealmaking. He spoke candidly about the value of embracing firm decisions, the realities of leadership, and how AI will reshape — but not replace — the next generation of private equity professionals.
The conversation was moderated by Muhammad Vakil, co-president of the PEVC Club. Opening remarks were provided by Burcu Esmer, academic co-director of the Harris Family Alternative Investments Program.
“I enjoyed hearing how Dan recommended acknowledging and believing in his firm’s decision. He shared this perspective as he talked about being asked to take charge of the London office,” reflected Araash Ahuja of the PEVC Club.
Kah Kheng Gan from the PEVC club offered, “Dan’s candid and engaging sharing of his career journey, deal experience, and life advice was immensely valuable to all the aspiring PE investors in the room.”
Key Takeaways from the Conversation
Tenacity and Leadership: Zilberman emphasized the importance of persistence in private equity and to approach challenges with a problem-solving mindset. He noted how leadership sometimes means putting the organization first and trusting the long-term process.
AI in PE: Zilberman offered a realistic view on AI’s growing role, predicting it could replace up to 70% of junior-level tasks within a few years. However, he underscored the irreplaceable value of junior professionals in team development and future firm leadership.
Jack of All Trades: Zilberman emphasized that the best investors have broad capabilities across disciplines, even if they bring in specialists. He explained that success comes from having command over a range of perspectives while owning final decisions.
View Event Photos Below:
This fireside chat offered students a unique opportunity to engage with a top industry leader, gain firsthand insights into the world of private equity and alternative investments, and deepen their understanding of the skills needed for success in the field.
Learn more about the Wharton PEVC club, Wharton Undergrad Finance club, and the Wharton IM club.
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Photo credit: Manette Faith