Martina Comas

In the high-stakes world of private equity, where speed, impact, and ROI define success, who should lead transformation - seasoned management consultants or dedicated in-house operators? Consultants bring structured playbooks, benchmarks and rapid diagnostics, but do they have enough skin in the game to drive lasting change? Transformation officers, deeply embedded in portfolio companies, offer hands-on execution, but can they move fast enough within the PE investment cycle? By examining the strengths and challenges of each approach, we’ll explore how to assemble the ideal team that drives transformation and delivers results. 

Technology and AI are at the heart of transformation, but are they truly delivering on their promise? While automation and SaaS have driven efficiency and cost-cutting, their impact on long-term growth remains unproven. AI - once hailed as the ultimate game-changer - has yet to demonstrate significant ROI at scale. Should companies invest in AI and technology without clear, immediate EBITDA improvements? How do these debates unfold in the boardroom when leaders looking to make a business case for technology investments? Join this session to hear key decision-making factors:

·       Where is Gen AI delivering real ROI today—and where it’s falling short?

·       How do PE firms approach tech investments (ERP, data & other projects) across the holding cycle?

·       The rise of SaaS reduces Capex barriers - but does it truly unlock value creation?

·       With boards reluctant to approve tech spend without clear ROI, how to build a business case?

·       Should leaders push for bold tech bets, or is cautious investment the wiser play?