H.I.G. Capital names Brian Schwartz CEO

Global investor H.I.G. Capital has announced that Brian Schwartz, a long-time leader and co-president, has been promoted to CEO. 

Brian Schwartz

He takes over from co-founder Sami Mnaymneh, who will now serve as executive chairman alongside fellow co-founder Tony Tamer, remaining active in the firm's strategy and investment decisions.

Additionally, Doug Berman, who previously headed U.S. Private Equity, has been elevated to co-president, working alongside current co-president Rick Rosen. These promotions are aimed at supporting H.I.G.'s ongoing growth as a large, global alternative assets company.

Since establishing H.I.G. in 1993, Mnaymneh and Tamer have expanded the firm into a global entity with over 1,000 employees in 18 offices across nine countries, completing over 3,500 transactions in private equity, credit, and real assets.

Schwartz, who joined H.I.G. in 1994, has been instrumental in the firm's growth and global expansion. As co-president for the past six years, he managed daily operations and participated in investment committees for all H.I.G. funds.

Berman, who joined in 1996, has successfully led H.I.G.'s U.S. Private Equity division, significantly expanding its offerings. In his new role as co-president, he will work with Rosen to guide the firm's investment strategy and operations.

Sami Mnaymneh said: "The firm has reached a scale and depth of leadership where this transition is both natural and strategically important. Brian has been instrumental to our success and a key driver of the firm's growth and evolution. I am confident that under his leadership, H.I.G. is very well positioned to further build on its middle market leadership position. I look forward to working with him as the firm builds on its strong foundation."

Brian Schwartz commented: "It is an honour to step into the role of CEO and to lead H.I.G. at this important point in its evolution. I am deeply grateful to Sami and Tony for building a firm defined by disciplined investing, operational focus, and a strong culture. With our differentiated platform and experienced team, we are well-positioned to capitalise on opportunities and continue delivering strong outcomes for our investors."

Doug Berman added: "Having led our U.S. Private Equity business, I've spent my time focused on investing, building businesses, and working closely with management teams. In this role, my priority is to ensure we stay disciplined in how we invest, stay close to our portfolio companies, and continue to execute at a high level across the firm. I look forward to partnering with Brian and Rick as we continue to execute on the opportunities we see in our markets."