- Argos Wityu member since 2023
- Speaks Dutch and English
- Erasmus School of Law
- Rotterdam School of Management, Erasmus University
- Argos Wityu member since 2023
- Speaks Dutch and English
- Erasmus School of Law
- Rotterdam School of Management, Erasmus University
Can you introduce yourself in a few words? Your age, your family situation and the country you live in?
Guy
My name is Guy Valette, 29 years old. I am Dutch and currently live in Amsterdam with my girlfriend.
What path led you to Argos and the position you hold today?
Guy
In my previous role at Deloitte Corporate Finance, I worked on a buyside transaction where we supported Argos in the acquisition of IJssel Technologie. It was an intense process, during which I got to know the Argos team well. I liked the way the team operated, how they approach transactions and where they find value in them. After I heard that they were recruiting for their soon-to-be-opened office in Amsterdam, I reached out to explore this opportunity.
Is this the path you thought you would take when you started your studies?
Guy
No, not particularly. During my studies I knew that I liked finance very much but was unsure about the direction I wanted to focus on. I completed several internships (both in M&A and sales & trading), and then set out to work as a market-maker in derivatives trading across major European exchanges. I enjoyed the activity of market trading, but I missed the human aspect. I also wanted to take on a more long-term entrepreneurial / investor perspective. I have now found both in my current role at Argos.
The world of private equity has changed a lot in recent years. What is your definition of PE? How do you see it?
Guy
The field of private equity has become more crowded over the years. Therefore, I think it is now more important than ever to stand out from other parties in terms of strategy, approach, responsibility and vision. The emphasis should be on supporting entrepreneurs in their journey towards success. To best support the companies we invest in, we must understand their ins-and-outs and be aligned on the vision we have for them. I believe that in the current environment it is crucial to deliver added value beyond providing capital alone. PE firms should be there to strengthen the innovation capacity of their portfolio companies and assist in strategic transformation. All the while working closely with the companies they have invested in to unlock their true potential.
What gets you out of bed in the morning?
Guy
I get a lot of energy from the idea that every day can bring a great opportunity to discover something new.
In a more general way, is there a person you admire, who inspires you on a daily basis? (e.g. writer, artist, politician, etc.)
Guy
I do not have a particular person I see as a role model per se. However, I hold in high regard people who have a strong vision they truly believe in and are willing to work very hard to achieve it. I value people who are competitive and are not afraid to deviate from the crowd. I think these characteristics can be found in the personality of a lot of successful people, both entrepreneurs and athletes.
How do you find balance in your life as a whole?
Guy
When I am out of the office, I try to spend as much time as I can with friends and family. Having fun and talking about things that are outside of my daily life help me to maintain a balanced view on things. I also very much enjoy travelling and exploring new countries and their culture.
In another life, you would be... ?
Guy
A pilot.
”The field of private equity has become more crowded over the years. Therefore, I think it is now more important than ever to stand out from other parties in terms of strategy, approach, responsibility and vision.“
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