Marcel Erni (Partners Group)
Overview
Marcel Erni is a prominent Swiss businessman known for being a co-founder of Partners Group, a leading global private equity firm headquartered in Baar, Switzerland. Established in 1996 alongside Alfred Gantner and Urs Wietlisbach, Partners Group has grown to manage over USD 150 billion in assets as of recent years. Erni has contributed significantly to the firm's strategy and growth, steering its activities in private equity, private infrastructure, real estate, and private credit investments worldwide. Additionally, he serves on the board of several Partners Group portfolio companies, including AMMEGA and Telepass. Erni's educational background includes an MBA from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business and a PhD in finance and banking from the University of St. Gallen.
Recent Developments
- July 2025: Partners Group, in which Erni is a co-founder and board member, reported solid asset management growth, maintaining a robust outlook amidst global market volatility, drawing in USD 12 billion in new commitments.[1]
- 2024: As part of its quest to expand its scope in royalties, Partners Group launched the first scalable multi-sector royalty strategy. This followed the firm's expansion in ELTIF solutions with new private equity evergreen strategies.[2]
- April 2023: Partners Group agreed to acquire 7,000 carbon credits from Climeworks’ DAC facilities to further its decarbonization goals, highlighting its commitment to environmental sustainability.[3]
- November 2022: Partners Group increased its investment in Breitling, a renowned Swiss watchmaker, marking itself as the majority shareholder, as Breitling’s valuation hit USD 4.5 billion.[4]
Personal Information
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Marcel Erni |
| Born | 1965, Switzerland |
| Nationality | Swiss |
| Occupation | Co-Founder and Board Member of Partners Group |
| Known For | Co-founding Partners Group, strategic investments, board memberships |
| Net Worth | $3.42 billion as of recent estimates |
| Education | MBA from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business, PhD in Finance and Banking from the University of St. Gallen |
Early Life and Education
Marcel Erni was born in 1965 in Switzerland. He cultivated a strong educational foundation in finance, earning a PhD in Finance and Banking from the University of St. Gallen. Erni further pursued his Master of Business Administration at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business, a move that significantly shaped his analytical and strategic management skills. Experiences during his time in Chicago, including exposure to diverse cultural and academic environments, were pivotal in developing his unique perspective on business and finance management.
Career and Notable Achievements
Marcel Erni began his career at Goldman Sachs and McKinsey & Co., where he honed his skills in investment management and advisory roles. In 1996, he co-founded Partners Group with Alfred Gantner and Urs Wietlisbach. The firm started in a modest 300-square-foot office and quickly grew into one of the leading private market firms worldwide.
- Partners Group's Growth: Under Erni’s leadership, Partners Group had continued expansion and innovation in private market investments, leading the launch of new investment products and growth strategies.
- Philanthropic Efforts: Apart from his professional achievements, Erni engages in philanthropic activities, focusing on education and environmental causes.
Current Work and Impact
Currently, Marcel Erni is actively serving on the board of directors of Partners Group and its portfolio companies such as AMMEGA and Global Blue. His strategic insights continue to guide the firm in optimizing investments and expanding its global footprint. Partners Group is distinguished for its entrepreneurial approach and deep involvement in transforming businesses and assets into market leaders.
Related Topics
Marcel Erni Net Worth
Marcel Erni's net worth is estimated at $3.42 billion, placing him among Switzerland’s wealthiest individuals.[5]
Partners Group Founders
Partners Group was established by Marcel Erni, Alfred Gantner, and Urs Wietlisbach in 1996. Their combined efforts have been pivotal in transforming the firm into a global leader in private market investments.[6]
Partners Group Team
Partners Group's operational success owes much to its seasoned executive and management team, underpinned by Erni’s strategic direction.[7]
Conclusion
Marcel Erni stands out as a key figure in the private equity landscape, having co-founded a firm that heavily influences private market investments across the globe. His strategic decisions and leadership at Partners Group continue to impact its growth trajectory, ensuring the firm remains at the forefront of private markets innovation and success. With ongoing investments in sustainability and global business development, Erni's legacy in the finance sector is poised to endure.
References
- Finimize - Partners Group Sticks To 2025 Outlook As Client Assets Grow
- Partners Group Launches its new Corporate Brand
- Financial Times - Banks and Oil Groups Place Bets on Carbon Capture Schemes
- Bloomberg - Breitling Said Valued at $4.5 Billion in Partners-CVC Deal
- Good Returns - Marcel Erni Net Worth and Biography
- Partners Group - Our Heritage
- The Org - Meet our Team