Principal, Direct/Secondary Investments DACH, Zurich, Switzerland

The client is a prominent European investment platform that operates a Zurich‑based team focused on expanding its direct and co‑investment activities throughout the DACH region. Backed by an existing fund and a new vintage currently being raised, the firm can partner with leading general partners and acquire sizable minority stakes (typically 40‑55 %) in resilient, lower‑mid‑market businesses across healthcare, education and business services. In this senior Principal role you will be expected to own the full investment cycle. You will source and develop secondary, mid‑life and co‑investment deals mainly through relationships with GPs and advisors, conduct independent due‑diligence, structure and negotiate transactions, and finalize shareholder agreements. You will also shape the firm's direct‑investment strategy, expand its sourcing network, and provide guidance to Associates and Analysts. The position requires a proven record of independently originating and closing deals in the DACH lower‑mid‑market space. Fluency in German and a well‑established network within the German‑speaking private‑equity community are essential, as is an international outlook and a European perspective. The candidate must demonstrate the maturity and confidence to work autonomously while collaborating effectively with senior partners and junior staff. The role is based in Zurich, offering the chance to join an entrepreneurial team that values high autonomy and hands‑on involvement in portfolio management. The environment is geared toward professionals who thrive on shaping investment strategy and mentoring junior colleagues within a dynamic, cross‑border platform. What the role asks for: - Proven track record of leading DACH transactions independently - Strong fluency in German language - Established network in German‑speaking private‑equity ecosystem - International mindset with European perspective - Ability to operate autonomously and collaborate with senior and junior team members - Nice‑to‑have: entrepreneurial team environment.