31 Mar 2026
35m

The Business Builder: New Mountain Capital's Steve Klinsky

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Steve Klinsky, founder and CEO of New Mountain Capital, shares his journey in private equity, from his early days at Goldman Sachs to founding his own firm. Klinsky emphasizes New Mountain's focus on business building rather than financial engineering, highlighting their strategy of investing in non-cyclical growth sectors and improving businesses through detailed five-year plans. He recounts the evolution of private equity from a cottage industry to a sophisticated form of business, driven by sector expertise and operational improvements. Klinsky also discusses his passion for educational reform, detailing his involvement in charter schools and the Modern States Education Alliance, which provides free college courses to reduce student debt.

Outlines

Part 1: Career Origins, Early Private Equity

Part 2: Founding and Philosophy of New Mountain Capital

Part 3: Investment Strategies, Sectors, and AI

Part 4: Philanthropy, Education, and Future Outlook

Part 5: Personal Reflections and Insights

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