About Us | Carlylese

Our Story

Two Decades of Investment Excellence

Carlylese was founded in 2005 with a singular vision: to build a world-class investment firm that delivers exceptional results through disciplined capital allocation, deep sector expertise, and genuine partnership with management teams and stakeholders.

Over the past two decades, we have grown from a boutique private equity firm to a diversified global investment platform managing over $50 billion in assets across private equity, credit, real estate, and infrastructure.

Our success is built on a foundation of integrity, transparency, and a long-term perspective. We believe that sustainable returns come from creating genuine value— for our portfolio companies, our investors, and the broader communities we serve.

Mission

To generate superior risk-adjusted returns for our investors while contributing positively to the growth and development of the businesses and communities we invest in worldwide.

Vision

To be recognized as the most trusted and respected global investment firm, known for our unwavering commitment to excellence, integrity, and sustainable value creation.

Commitment

We are committed to maintaining the highest ethical standards, fostering diversity and inclusion, and building lasting relationships based on trust, transparency, and mutual respect.

Integrity

We conduct our business with the highest ethical standards, ensuring transparency and honesty in all our dealings.

Expertise

We continuously develop our knowledge and skills to provide unparalleled insights and execution capabilities.

Innovation

We embrace creative thinking and forward-looking strategies to identify opportunities and solve complex challenges.

Partnership

We believe in building lasting relationships based on mutual respect, shared goals, and collaborative success.

Alexander Chen

Chief Executive Officer

25+ years experience in private equity and global investments. Former Partner at leading global investment bank.

Sarah Mitchell

Chief Investment Officer

Former head of alternative investments at major sovereign wealth fund. CFA charterholder.

Michael Roberts

Managing Director, Private Equity

20+ years in private equity with focus on technology and healthcare sectors. MBA, Harvard Business School.

Emma Thompson

Managing Director, Real Estate

Former global head of real estate at institutional investment manager. 18 years in property investments.

2005

Foundation

Carlylese founded in New York with a $500M inaugural private equity fund, focusing on mid-market buyouts.

2008

Expansion During Crisis

Raised second fund amid financial crisis. Began credit investment strategy, capitalizing on market dislocation.

2012

Real Estate Launch

Launched real estate platform, acquiring mixed-use developments in key U.S. metropolitan areas.

2016

Global Presence

Opened London and Singapore offices. Infrastructure investment platform launched with first European assets.

2020

Milestone Achievement

Reached $30B AUM milestone. Launched Asia-Pacific focused fund with strategic local partnerships.

2024

Continued Growth

Expanded to $50B+ AUM across all strategies. Recognized as a top-tier global investment firm.

About Carlylese