Early Life and Education
Behdad Eghbali, born in Iran, immigrated to the United States as a child. He later pursued higher education, earning a degree from the Haas School of Business at the University of California, Berkeley. This academic foundation set the stage for his successful career in finance.
Rise to Success
Eghbali's career began in investment banking. He started in the mergers and acquisitions group at Jefferies Broadview and in the technology group at Morgan Stanley & Co.. In 2006, Eghbali co-founded Clearlake Capital Group with José E. Feliciano. Under their leadership, Clearlake has become a powerhouse in private equity, growing from a startup to a firm with over $85 billion in assets under management. The firm focuses on investments in the technology, industrials, and consumer sectors. Clearlake's strategy involves a hands-on approach, working closely with management teams to improve operations, a method known as O.P.S.® (Operations, People, Strategy).
Key Business Strategies
Clearlake Capital's success is attributed to its sector-focused approach and ability to identify undervalued companies with growth potential. The firm strategically invests in market dislocations, out-of-favor industries, and companies undergoing transitions. A notable strategy includes a focus on operational improvement to drive value creation. In May 2022, Clearlake, along with billionaire investor Todd Boehly, acquired Chelsea Football Club for $3 billion.
Philanthropy
Eghbali serves on nonprofit boards, including his family foundation, the Noor Foundation, and the International Society of Children with Cancer.