Executive search for family offices,
private equity and the investment community since 2011.
At the intersection of talent and capital.
Based in New York City since 2011, Watson Ford advises leading private capital firms on investment hires at every level. We work with a select group of private equity firms, infrastructure investors, growth equity and venture capital funds, and family offices to build and scale teams across the United States, Europe and Asia.
Our established relationships across the investment, M&A and banking communities are central to our work. We combine deep market insight with a clear understanding of how investment firms are built, supporting complex searches that call for discretion, speed and precision.
A disciplined, highly selective approach has shaped our firm from the beginning. We focus on lasting partnerships, personal service and the delivery of exceptional talent.
How we workOur work spans investment strategies, with particular depth in energy transition, infrastructure, real assets and digital infrastructure, alongside thematic investing in technology, media and telecommunications, industrials and consumer.
Discreet search for single and multifamily offices, with particular attention to investment philosophy, culture and the responsibilities of managing family capital. We identify investment professionals and leaders who bring sound judgement and a lasting fit.
Investment talent for buyout firms, specialist funds and emerging managers. We support established teams and new platforms across investment roles, portfolio leadership, investor relations and capital formation.
Investors and leaders who understand how businesses grow. Our work spans venture capital and growth equity, connecting firms with professionals who combine investment discipline, sector insight and an entrepreneurial perspective.
Specialist search across private credit, hedge funds and broader alternative strategies. We bring an understanding of distinct investment approaches and the experience required to build teams around them.
Investment and finance professionals across infrastructure, renewable energy and digital infrastructure. We work with funds, developers and investment platforms, from established assets to the next generation of energy and connectivity.
Investment, portfolio management and leadership appointments for asset managers and wealth management firms. We help organisations build teams aligned with their clients, investment objectives and evolving business needs.
Talent across real estate investment, acquisitions, development and asset management. Our search approach reflects the demands of each strategy, asset class and stage of the investment cycle.
Search across M&A and sector coverage teams, informed by established relationships throughout the banking and investment communities. We identify professionals with the transaction experience, sector knowledge and judgement required for each mandate.
Every search begins with a conversation about your business, your culture and what success in the role truly requires.
Retained and contingent search, tailored to the assignment. We combine systematic research, active headhunting and established relationships to identify, assess and introduce candidates with the right experience, judgement and motivations.
From investment professionals to senior leadership, our focus is a thoughtful match that serves your organisation over time.
Our partnership extends beyond a single appointment. Market mapping, competitor analysis and compensation insight help clients understand the talent landscape and plan with greater confidence.
We bring a consultative perspective to your leadership needs, team structure and wider recruitment priorities.
We take the time to understand your strategic objectives, your organisation and the qualities that will make a person successful within it. From the initial brief to the final appointment, our partnership is personal, rigorous and discreet.
Discuss a searchWe build lasting relationships with the people we represent. By understanding your experience, aspirations and motivations, we can offer a considered perspective on your next move and support you throughout the process.
Start a confidential conversationYou are welcome to attach your CV to your email.
For a new search, market perspective
or a confidential career discussion.