About NextStep
NextStep connects top consulting talent with high-potential opportunities through smart, AI-powered matching. We partner with ambitious companies across sectors to place experienced professionals in roles where they can have a real impact. On behalf of a client in our partner network, we are currently looking for a Portfolio Director / Operating Partner to join their team.
About the Company
Our client is a UK-based growth equity fund with £900m AUM, investing in founder-led technology and software businesses at the Series B–D stage. With a portfolio of 18 active investments and a strong belief that operational value creation is as important as financial structuring, they are building out their operating team to provide intensive, hands-on support to portfolio companies at critical inflection points. This is a newly created and highly influential role within the fund.
The Role
As Portfolio Director / Operating Partner, you will work directly with the management teams of portfolio companies, bringing operational expertise, strategic rigour, and commercial experience to bear on the challenges that determine whether a business reaches its potential. You will typically be embedded within one or two companies at a time, working alongside founders and CEOs on the issues that matter most to the fund's return.
What You'll Do
Conduct rapid operational and strategic diagnostics across portfolio companies, identifying the highest-priority value creation opportunities.
Work alongside portfolio company leadership teams to design and implement improvement initiatives spanning growth, operations, and organisational capability.
Support portfolio company CEOs on specific high-priority challenges, including go-to-market strategy, pricing, hiring, and operating model design.
Contribute to the investment team's due diligence on new deals by providing an operational perspective on target companies.
Build and maintain a trusted adviser relationship with portfolio company founders and boards.
What We're Looking For
12–18 years of experience in management consulting (Partner or Engagement Manager level), private equity operating teams, or a C-suite operational role in a technology or software business.
Proven ability to drive meaningful operational and commercial improvement in a hands-on capacity.
Excellent interpersonal skills, able to build trust quickly with founders and manage the nuances of operating in a portfolio company context.
Commercially sharp and analytically rigorous, comfortable moving between strategic thinking and practical implementation.
Experience in B2B SaaS, software, or technology services is strongly preferred.
Compensation & Benefits
Base salary of £150,000 – £190,000, depending on experience.
Carried interest from the current fund vehicle.
Annual cash bonus with fund performance component.
Private health cover, pension, and flexible working arrangements.
How to Apply
To be considered for this role, please create your profile at getnextstep.com. Once your profile is complete, our matching system will evaluate your background against the role criteria and match you with the company if it's a strong fit. No cover letter required.
This role is listed by NextStep on behalf of our client. All applications are handled with confidentiality.