This specialist one-day course, led by Mark Freer, a seasoned investor with over 25 years’ experience in private equity and growth capital, explores the human and behavioural aspects that underpin successful investing. Beyond technical expertise, the ability to communicate effectively and build trust with management teams and investment committees is critical for achieving impact in the private capital markets.
Through interactive discussions and real-world case studies, participants will learn why impact and communication skills matter in deal-making. Discover how to adapt communication styles for different audiences, including management teams and investment committees; handle challenging conversations and deliver feedback effectively; build credibility and confidence when presenting to senior stakeholders, and set personal goals to enhance long-term effectiveness.
Designed for both GP and LP investors, this course is ideal for professionals seeking to enhance their influence and interpersonal skills in private capital.
Special introductory pricing
*Save £500 per place with our special introductory pricing, valid until 31 January 2026.
Audience
GP and LP Firms: this course is ideal for professionals seeking to elevate their influence and interpersonal skills in private capital.
Individuals: Ideal for individuals in investment roles.
Key topics include
- Essence of your role
- Why impact and communication skills matter in deal-making
- Meeting management teams
- Giving and receiving feedback (internally and portfolio settings)
- Techniques to improve your interactions
- Handling difficult topics
- Investment Committee
-
Purpose and how to approach it
-
- Building credibility with senior stakeholders
- Investment Committee/Advisory committee/presentations/pitching - delivering with confidence
- Case Studies
What will delegates take away?
- Communicate with impact in investment settings, including management meetings and Investment Committees.
- Adapt communication styles to different audiences for maximum influence and clarity.
- Deliver feedback effectively to build trust and drive performance in portfolio companies and internal teams.
- Handle challenging conversations with confidence and professionalism.
- Present persuasively, turning analysis into compelling narratives that secure buy-in.
- Set personal action goals to embed learning and improve long-term effectiveness.
Benefits to employers
- Stronger stakeholder relationships through improved communication and credibility
- Enhanced deal execution as teams communicate more effectively and influence decision-making.
- Reduced risk of misalignment by equipping teams to handle difficult topics and feedback constructively.
- Greater confidence in presentations, ensuring investment cases are delivered with clarity and authority.
- Improved team cohesion and culture, as employees develop interpersonal skills that foster collaboration and trust.
FAQs about this course
What should I expect on the day?
Please arrive with plenty of time to register. Breakfast will be provided along with lunch and refreshments, with a drinks reception at the end of the day. The course will kick-off with introductions followed by content from multiple speakers as per the agenda.
What’s the dress code?
Smart casual.
What should I bring with me?
You may wish to bring something to work on/ to take notes, such as a laptop or iPad (we will provide note pads and pens).
Will materials be shared with delegates?
Yes, all materials including slides and case studies will be shared with delegates.
Format
In-person, London
Course Director
Mark Freer
Mark Freer has over 25 years investment experience in both the private equity and growth capital markets, most notably with LDC and BGF. During that time, Mark had the privilege of working alongside a variety of owners and management teams across many different sectors, supporting them in accelerating and achieving their own growth plans.
Since leaving BGF in 2021, Mark continues to work with small and medium sized businesses, both as Chair and in an advisory capacity. Alongside this, he also pursues his passion for training, working with several organisations, such as the BVCA, to share some of the lessons he has learnt over his 25-year investment career.
At other times, you might find Mark sitting at his piano playing some familiar tunes.
CPD accreditation
This course is CPD accredited by the CPD Certification Service for 6 hours. By attending this course, you will receive a digital certificate from Diplomasafe. This certificate allows you to share and save your new CPD accredited qualification on LinkedIn, adding instantly verifiable credentials and strengthening your professional profile.