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Private Equity

With over 100 years combined experience in c-suite and executive appointments, we are redefining executive search practices through-out New Zealand.

Executive Search Built for the Pace and Precision of Private Equity

Private equity moves fast. Leadership decisions move faster. Getting the right person into a portfolio company CEO, CFO or GM role, at the right moment in the investment cycle, can make a material difference to outcomes.

At Tribe Executive, we saw a natural need from our clients in identifying and recruiting top-tier leadership talent for private equity firms across Australia and New Zealand.

The Tribe Executive Team brings global experience and network to bring recruiting within the Private Equity space to life. Our team has a deep understanding of the intricacies of the private equity industry, allowing our clients to leverage an extensive network and industry expertise to source exceptional leaders who align seamlessly with our clients' unique needs and visions.

We employ a bespoke approach, conducting thorough assessments of both the hiring organisation and potential candidates, ensuring a tailored fit for every placement. Our seasoned team of consultants employs a rigorous evaluation process, considering not only technical proficiency but also cultural compatibility and strategic acumen. This meticulous methodology guarantees that we consistently connect private equity firms with leaders who possess the precise blend of experience, insight, and foresight required to drive success in the dynamic landscape of the industry.

By partnering with Tribe Executive, private equity firms in Australia and New Zealand gain a distinct competitive advantage, accessing exceptional leadership talent curated to drive growth and innovation.


Why Private Equity Firms Choose Tribe Executive

The PE recruitment market is small but exacting. Tribe Executive has earned its position as the preferred executive search partner for a growing number of New Zealand and Australian private equity firms. Here's why.

Trans-Tasman Reach, NZ Market Depth

We operate across Australia and New Zealand, which matters for PE firms with regional portfolios. But we don't sacrifice local market knowledge for scale - our NZ executive network is deep, and our understanding of the regional talent market is unmatched.

PE-Specific Search Methodology

Portfolio company appointments require a different lens than standard executive search. We assess candidates not just for their functional capability, but for their ability to operate in a PE-backed environment: speed of execution, value creation focus, and the ability to work constructively with an investment-focused board.

Discretion as Standard

Senior appointments in PE-backed businesses often require absolute confidentiality — from the search process through to announcement. We manage that with the professionalism you'd expect from a firm that counts Investment Directors and Managing Partners among its clients.

Diversity of Shortlist as Default

We consistently deliver shortlists that represent the full breadth of available talent, not just the usual suspects. Our research methodology is designed to surface high-calibre candidates who would not have responded to an open advertisement.

Our Private Equity Partners

Get in Touch

Looking to grow your team or find your next Executive position? Get in touch with the team Tribe Executive for a confidential chat.

Meet the Team

Bruce PilbrowBruce Pilbrow hover

Bruce Pilbrow

Chief Executive Officer

+64 21 246 4335

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Bruce is a purpose-driven leader who thrives on creativity and building impactful brands. With experience across corporate, NGO, government, and entrepreneurial sectors, he champions talent, culture, and collaboration. At Tribe Group, he unites vision, agility, and people to drive meaningful success.

James BrookeJames Brooke hover

James Brooke

Managing Partner

+64 27 595 9979

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As an entrepreneur at heart, James has a strong focus on how organisations attract and retain the best talent. We've shaped NZ’s most progressive, people-first recruitment and Search brand by surrounding ourselves with outstanding people, being bold with tech, and striving to do a better job than anyone else.

Jenny JonesJenny Jones hover

Jenny Jones

Managing Partner

+64 27 571 9300

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Jenny is Co-Founder of Tribe Recruitment Group, bringing 25+ years of experience in FMCG, commercial leadership, and Executive Search. She’s known for her people-first, strategic approach, delivering bold, high-impact recruitment solutions with heart and expertise.

Brad GatehouseBrad Gatehouse hover

Brad Gatehouse

Commercial and Private Equity

+64 27 611 3638

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Brad specialises in senior executive appointments across commercial and PE sectors, bringing 27+ years' experience and a background in finance. He works closely with Boards and CEOs to shape leadership teams, offering insight on search, succession, remuneration, and confidential advisory.

Sandy GibbsSandy Gibbs hover

Sandy Gibbs

People, Culture & Capability

+64 27 583 7411

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Sandy brings 25+ years of Recruitment experience, and can lean into most disciplines, however her passion for people and capability has resulted in her leading Tribe's HR consulting team, and spearheading executive search across HR and P&C.

Cameron KingCameron King hover

Cameron King

Commercial and Private Equity

+64 22 073 1320

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Cameron leads Executive Search across Sales, Marketing & Digital, helping NZ businesses find transformational leaders. With 15+ years' experience in NZ & the UK, Cameron is a specialist in senior hires, culture-fit, and strategic growth roles - driven by a consultative, values-first approach.

Mia MrsićMia Mrsić hover

Mia Mrsić

Senior Researcher

+64 27 213 2356

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Behind every great leadership appointment is rigorous, human-led research. Mia supports the full search lifecycle: market mapping, sourcing, and candidate research for C-suite and governance roles. With curiosity and care, Mia focuses on the detail that makes the difference in executive search.

Zahrah BashirZahrah Bashir hover

Zahrah Bashir

Executive Assistant

+64 27 269 8691

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Originally from Glasgow, Scotland, Zahrah proudly calls Aotearoa home. As an experienced executive assistant, she’s known for her bubbly personality, calm approach, and sharp organisational skills. Passionate about helping others thrive, she brings warmth and energy to every team she joins.