Jefferies M&A dealmaker Raphael is leaving the investment bank to join private equity firm Ardian, according to a person familiar with the matter. The move underscores the ongoing talent flow from investment banking to the private equity sector.
Details of the Move
Raphael, a managing director at Jefferies, has been a key figure in the bank's mergers and acquisitions practice. He will join Ardian, a leading private equity firm, in a senior role. The exact title and start date have not been disclosed.
The departure comes as Jefferies continues to navigate a challenging M&A market. Despite headwinds, the bank has maintained a strong deal pipeline, but losing a seasoned dealmaker like Raphael is a blow.
Impact on Jefferies
Raphael's exit is part of a broader trend of investment bankers moving to private equity firms, where compensation can be higher and deal-making more direct. Jefferies has not commented on the departure or potential replacements.
According to data from recruitment firm Heidrick & Struggles, the number of investment bankers moving to private equity has increased by 20% over the past year. This shift reflects the growing appeal of private equity as a career destination for top dealmakers.
Raphael's move to Ardian is expected to be finalized in the coming weeks. He will be based in London, where Ardian has a significant presence.
