Private Equity Talent Moves: Serena, Andera, Nexia

The private equity and venture capital ecosystem in France is seeing a significant influx of seasoned professionals and emerging talent, underscoring a continued focus on deep technology investments and strategic advisory services. Firms like Serena are bolstering their capabilities in cutting-edge sectors, while established players such as Andera Partners and advisory groups like Cambon Partners are expanding their teams to meet growing market demands.

Serena, a venture capital firm known for its investments in deep tech, has appointed Jeehanne Reboud as an Associate within its Serena Data Ventures arm. Reboud's background, including a prior entrepreneurial venture in the art world, suggests a broadening perspective on innovation. This move aligns with the broader trend of VCs seeking diverse expertise to navigate the complexities of technology-driven markets, where the global deep tech market is projected to reach hundreds of billions in the coming years.

In the realm of asset management, Apera Asset Management has welcomed Thibault Sartori as a Principal. Sartori brings a wealth of experience from his previous role as a Private Debt Investment Director at BNP Paribas Asset Management, indicating a strategic expansion in Apera's debt financing capabilities. This recruitment comes at a time when private debt has become a crucial component of the alternative investment landscape, offering flexible capital solutions to a wide range of companies.

Andera Partners has strengthened its investment team with the addition of Sandy Blin as a Senior Investment Manager. Blin's five-year tenure at Gimv provides her with a robust track record in private equity. Her arrival at Andera Partners, a firm active across various European markets, signals a continued commitment to identifying and nurturing high-growth potential companies.

The advisory sector is also experiencing notable shifts. Cambon Partners has onboarded three new professionals to enhance its advisory services. Tom Nigro joins as an Analyst in Debt Advisory, bringing experience from BNP Paribas. Pierre du Boucheron steps in as Vice-President, having previously worked with CIC Conseil. Additionally, Pierre Bouquet has been appointed as an Analyst for Fundraising, adding to the firm's capacity in capital raising strategies. These appointments highlight the increasing demand for specialized financial advisory services in a dynamic M&A and fundraising environment.

Further strengthening its Paris office, international law firm Willkie Farr & Gallagher has appointed Charles Del Valle as a Partner in its Tax department. Del Valle's move from A&O Shearman, where he was also a Partner, underscores his expertise in complex tax matters, a critical area for cross-border transactions and private equity deals. Meanwhile, CNP Assurances has promoted Sandra Unger to Head of Private Equity Department, recognizing her contributions since joining in 2020. Nexia S&A has also elevated three professionals to Partner: Victor Lelong and Laurent Ravoux in audit, and Nicolas Olivier in transaction services, reflecting internal growth and expertise development within the accounting and advisory firm.