Private Funds
CFO
Network
CFO
Network
New York Forum
February 3-4, 2026
Convene Brookfield Place, 225 Liberty St, New York
Setting the standard for finance and operations leaders in private markets
Join the Private Funds CFO Network at the 23rd annual New York Forum on February 3-4, 2026.
Connect with the most influential private markets CFOs and CCOs through roundtable discussions, networking luncheons, think tanks, speaker office hours, and more.
You’ll leave with:
- A benchmark against your peers about how your firm stacks up
- A clear understanding of current and future regulations directly from SEC leaders
- Ideas and strategies on how to optimize your back office
Join now with your team of senior executives
2025 keynotes:
Michael S. Chae
Vice Chairman & CFO
Vik Sawhney
CAO
Blackstone
Drawing from their extensive experience leading one of the world’s largest and most influential investment firms, Michael and Vik will share their perspectives on navigating financial complexities, adapting to regulatory changes, and leveraging strategic opportunities in a rapidly evolving environment. Attendees will gain valuable insights into the key challenges and emerging trends shaping the financial industry, equipping them with the knowledge to steer their organizations with confidence and foresight.
Catherine Addona-Peña
CRO & SVP
Nasdaq
This in-depth keynote fireside chat will explore the increasingly omnipresent role of risk management in today’s operating environment – you’ll walk away with a deeper understanding of key risk considerations when operationalizing and integrating artificial intelligence platforms, a view into the emerging risks and challenges facing operators in 2025, and how to continually promote a proactive culture of risk management across your organization.
2025 Featured speakers
Attendees included:
What attendees say about the Forum
Lisa Costello
HCI Equity Partners
I have attended the CFOs and COOs Forum in NYC for many years. It is a great way to stay abreast of the myriad of topics that affect the PE industry. You will f…
Bernadette Mentor
Prysm Capital
The learning sessions and networking opportunities are invaluable. All of the topics are relevant and relatable and PEI’s ability to facilitate these disc…
Blake Bennett
Revelstoke Capital Partners
I really enjoy this conference. I can always count on the who’s who of private equity professionals to be in attendance.
Why the Private Funds CFO New York Forum?
Benchmark against peers
Understand how your peers are overcoming common challenges. The Forum will provide senior finance and operations executives with actions that can make a tangible impact at their firm.
Explore new services
Discover ways to streamline and improve your processes with a vetted group of private market service providers onsite and eager to assist you ease pain points in day-to-day activities.
Year-round intelligence and networking
As a member of the Private Funds CFO Network, you will have exclusive access to the New York Forum and stay connected with like-minded peers through our member’s activities across the year. Learn more.
Key discussion topics
Transformation/evolution of the CFO role
Tackling today’s fundraising climate
Managing the current regulatory environment
Adopting the right technology solutions to advance the firm
AI and the use of innovative technologies in private markets
Conducting cash and risk management
2025 Agenda
Download the 2025 agenda to see the timely and relevant topics covered at the New York Forum.
If you are interested in a speaking role please contact Kellie Green at kellie.g@pei.group.
All times are listed in Eastern Time (ET)
View agenda page
Trial and error: how are you establishing the best processes and procedures to drive success?
What tasks should and can be outsourced?
Determining when it’s time to expand the team internally
Agenda
Day 1 - Tuesday 4th
08:00 - 09:00
Registration – breakfast
Plenary
09:00 - 09:10
PEI welcome
Chris Tamms
Chris Tamms, Head of Private Funds CFO Network, PEI
09:10 - 09:15
Chair’s welcome
Noah Becker
Noah Becker, Chief Financial Officer, LLR Partners
09:15 - 10:05
Keynote interview
Michael S. Chae,
Vik Sawhney
We are honored to welcome Blackstone’s Michael S. Chae, Vice Chairman & Chief Financial Officer and Vik Sawhney, Chief Administrative Officer & Global Head of Institutional Client Solutions for a keynote interview.
In this pivotal session, Michael and Vik will delve into the current economic landscape, providing a comprehensive analysis tailored for today’s CFOs, COOs and senior finance executives.
Drawing from his extensive experience leading one of the world’s largest and most influential investment firms, Michael will share his perspectives on navigating financial complexities, adapting to regulatory changes, and leveraging strategic opportunities in a rapidly evolving environment. Attendees will gain valuable insights into the key challenges and emerging trends shaping the financial industry, equipping them with the knowledge to steer their organizations with confidence and foresight.
Michael S. Chae, Vice Chairman & Chief Financial Officer, Blackstone
Vik Sawhney, Chief Administrative Officer & Global Head of Institutional Client Solutions, Blackstone
10:05 - 10:55
Data Debrief: Trends Driving Focused Forecasting, Benchmarking Breakthroughs - and What They Mean for the Future of Private Funds
Jennifer Banzaca,
Sarah G. Roth,
William Andreoni,
Melissa Dickerson,
Judd Sher
Reviewing in-depth people, planning and process data from PEI Group’s 2025 Private Funds Annual CFO Insights Survey, our panel of industry leading executive panelists will breakdown how this essential research can and should shape the future of your firm, inform your strategies – and rewrite the landscape of private funds as we now know it.
Moderator: Jennifer Banzaca, Senior Reporter, PEI Group
Speakers:
Sarah Roth, CEO, Argosy Capital
William Andreoni, National Asset Management Consulting Leader I Fund Services & Co-Lead, RSM US
Melissa Dickerson, Managing Director & CFO, Genstar Capital
Judd Sher, Partner & Chief Financial Officer, Hellman & Friedman
10:55 - 11:25
Networking break
State of the industry fireside chats
11:25 - 12:25
How It Works
Three part series of 20 minute informal interview-style sessions highlighting representatives from top firms and will provide attendees with advice for weathering thorough an evolving industry.
11:25 - 11:45
Part 1 | Understanding where the regulatory environment is heading
Norm Champ,
Henry Ward
Join us for an insightful discussion with Norm Champ the former Director of the Division of Investment Management at the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). In this exclusive interview, we will delve into how investment firms can stay ahead of regulatory changes and build robust compliance programs.
Key Topics Include:
- Anticipating SEC Developments: Gain expert insights on emerging trends and potential regulatory shifts from the SEC. Discover strategies for firms to proactively adapt to new rules and expectations, ensuring they remain compliant and competitive in a dynamic regulatory environment.
- Building a Successful Compliance Program: Learn about the essential components of a strong compliance program. Explore best practices for designing and implementing effective compliance frameworks that not only meet regulatory requirements but also foster a culture of integrity and accountability.
Speaker: Norm Champ, Former Director of the Division of
Investment Management, U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission
Moderator: Henry Ward, CEO & Co-Founder, Carta
11:45 - 12:05
Part 2 | Driving Success Through Human Capital: Strategies for the Private Funds Industry
Matthew Breitfelder,
Henry Ward
This interview will offer a rare opportunity to hear directly from one of the leading voices in human capital strategy and gain practical insights that can help shape the future of talent management in private funds. Whether you’re looking to build a more inclusive culture, adopt data-driven practices, or improve your firm’s talent retention, this conversation will provide actionable takeaways to help your firm excel in the competitive private funds sector.
Key Topics Include:
- Current Trends in Recruitment and Retention
- Building an Innovative and Inclusive High-Performance Culture
- Leveraging Data-Driven Approaches to Human Capital
Speaker: Matthew Breitfelder, Partner and Global Head of Human Capital, Apollo Global Management
Moderator: Henry Ward, CEO & Co-Founder, Carta
12:05 - 12:25
Part 3 | Leveraging Technology for Efficiency and Risk Mitigation in Private Funds
Ruchir Swarup,
Henry Ward
Ruchir will delve into KKR’s technology vision, discussing how the integration of data analytics, artificial intelligence, and digital tools is reshaping the private equity landscape.
He will also offer a forward-looking perspective on how private funds can leverage technology to streamline operations, drive efficiencies, and minimize risk.
Speaker: Ruchir Swarup, Partner, Chief Information Officer, KKR
Moderator: Henry Ward, CEO & Co-Founder, Carta
12:25 - 01:25
Networking luncheon
Breakout panels with peer-to-peer workshops
13:30 - 14:30
How It Works
Ever wish you could delve into a panel’s discussion topics with your peers – or the panelists themselves – while they’re still at the top of your mind and the tip of your tongue? In these uber-interactive breakout sessions, you get to do both!
Choose from 5 different deep dive topic options for a dynamic panel discussion on stage, followed by panelist-led small group brainstorms and breakdowns of panel subtopics.
These interactive sessions end with the panelists reporting back to the larger audience so everyone may benefit from the knowledge shared amongst the smaller groups during their peer-to-peer workshops
13:30 - 14:30
Track A | Power Prep: Exploring New Tactics for Present Day SEC Exams | Peer-to-Peer Compliance Workshop
Joel Wattenbarger,
Jon Franke,
Mona Laungani,
Jennifer Martin
- SEC priorities are constantly changing year to year – are you keeping up? We’ll unpack the 2025 exam’s most pressing priorities
- An audit can happen anytime and constant, diligent prep is key – learn how to decipher which best practices ensure your firm’s exam readiness – at all times
- The keys to navigating reoccurring exam themes of recent years
Moderator: Joel Wattenbarger, Partner, Ropes & Gray
Speakers:
Jon Franke, Partner, Rubicon Technology Partners
Mona Laungani, Managing Director & Chief Financial Officer, J.C. Flowers
Jennifer Martin, General Partner & Chief Financial Officer, Welsh, Carson, Anderson & Stowe
13:30 - 14:30
Track B | Beyond the Buzz: Tailoring your Tech Stack for Agility, Velocity, and True Value | Peer-to-Peer Tech Stack Workshop
Ore Adegbotolu,
Michaele Gobel,
Chaim Langer,
Chase LeBlanc,
Matt Whelan
- Trial and error: when is it the right time to investigate new vendors and solutions?
- What tech solutions are firms turning to as workloads increase with limited resources?
- Determining key considerations for costs, risks and characteristics of providers to quickly (but safely) find your firm’s footing in a rapidly evolving market
Moderator: Ore Adegbotolu, Head of Commercial, U.S., Aztec Group
Speakers:
Michaele Gobel, CFO, Equilibrium
Chaim Langer, Managing Director, Goldman Sachs
Chase LeBlanc, Director, Specialty Sales, FactSet
Matt Whelan, Partner & Chief Financial Officer, Patient Square Capital
13:30 - 14:30
Track C | Data Driven, Future Facing: Keeping up with the Accelerated Evolution of Firmwide Data Management | Peer-to-Peer Data Management Workshop
Justin Brimfield,
Joann Barsky,
Dina Colombo,
Brad Pietras,
Cesar Estrada
- New approaches to developing data repositories, collecting diverse, accurate, timely data across your firm, and ensuring the value of collected data
- Exploring new, non-traditional uses for precise, informed data-driven decisions across your firm
- How to better take advantage of AI’s increasingly significant role in data management
Moderator: Justin Brimfield, Managing Director, ICD, a Tradeweb business
Speaker:
Joann Barsky, Chief Financial Officer & Head of Operations, Townhall Ventures
Dina Colombo, Partner, COO & CFO, GreyLion Partners
Brad Pietras, CFO, Head of Operations, 154 Partners
Cesar Estrada, SVP, Private Markets Segment Head, Arcesium
Justin Brimfield
Managing Director, Head of ICD Marketing and Partnerships, ICD, a Tradeweb business
Read bio
13:30 - 14:30
Track D | Bigger, Bolder, Better: Scaling your firm as private markets evolve | Peer-to-Peer Data Scaling Workshop
Joshua Cherry-Seto,
Eric Lazear,
Sandi Kim-Suk,
Michael Janiszewski,
Dan Baginski
- How does scaling differ between asset classes – and what operational strategies can be learned and applied from those outside your class?
- How does a firm balance resourcing and staffing to solve immediate needs while having a strategic mindset for future growth?
- Investor inquires: what do new and existing investors want to see from firms as they scale?
Moderator: Joshua Cherry-Seto, Partner, CFO, StartUp Health
Speaker:
Eric Lazear, Deputy COO / Head of Operational Risk Due Diligence, Titan Advisors
Sandi Kim-Suk, Formerly CFO & CAO of Engine No 1
Mike Janiszewski, Chief Operating Officer, Alter Domus
Dan Bagniski, CFO/CCO, Citation Capital
13:30 - 14:30
Track E | Carried Interest 2025: Building credible & creative carried interest programs for the Now & Next Generations | Peer-to-Peer Carried Interest Workshop
Dominic Elias,
Berat Rifati,
Lisa Dobrinsky,
LeAnn Kilarski,
Michael Lebowitz
- How to find the right vesting structure and allocation methods for your firm
- Deciphering the best time to make changes to an existing carry program
- What are millennials & gen-z expecting from carry & how does it differ from other generations at your firm?
Moderator: Dominic Elias, Chief Advisory Services Officer, EWM Global
Speakers:
Berat Rifati, Chief Financial Officer & Chief Compliance Officer, Heartwood Partners
Lisa Dobrinsky, Lead Compensation and HR Business Partner, Two Sigma Private Investments
LeAnn Kilarski, Chief Operating Officer, Entrepreneurial Equity Partners
Michael Lebowitz, Head of Investments Compensation, Manulife Investment Management
Now, New, Next: Future Facing Panel Discussions
14:35 - 15:25
How It Works
Choose from 4 top of mind topic options, as diverse groupings of the brightest minds in the business openly discuss their journeys, pitfalls, and victories while designing the essential blueprint for their firm’s future – and the lessons they’ve learned along the way. Forget the crystal ball – this is an IRL look at what’s to come.
Interactive audience Q&A throughout- so don’t forget to submit questions ahead of time via the event app – or be bold and raise your hand to get the discussion going live as we pass the mic around!
14:35 - 15:25
Track A | Collaborations that Click: Aligning with Portfolio Companies though Values & Future-Facing Vision
Dan Gorlick,
Tracy Pizzi,
Katherine Gomer,
Steve Bullock,
Sunil Rao
- How to define and strengthen your role as a CFO and COO in portfolio collaborations
- Establishing proper KPIs and performance metrics for a diverse set of portfolio companies
- Determining the best solutions and tech tools for the crucial exchange of data with portfolio companies
Moderator: Dan Gorlick, Head of Product, iLEVEL, S&P Global Market Intelligence
Speakers:
Tracy Pizzi, Partner, Yellow Wood Partners
Katherine Gomer, COO & Managing Director, Maverick Ventures
Steve Bullock, Head of Financial Services, Kyriba
Sunil Rao, COO, SVP, Finance, Plum Alley
14:35 - 15:25
Track B | War Games: Battling & Beating the Cybersecurity Risks of the Now & Future
Travis DeForge,
Gary Marshall,
Joshua Gilbert,
Eric Feldman,
Simon Eyre
- Exploring new ways of ensuring all firm employees are fully prepared for the latest risks & forecasted future of cyber-invasions
- Learn how varied sizes of firms are firms handling off-channel communications
- Portfolio company cyber protection & fully unpacking the GP’s fiduciary duty in 2025 and beyond
Moderator: Travis DeForge, Director of Cybersecurity Engineering, Abacus Group
Speakers:
Gary Marshall, Director of Technology, Paine Schwartz Partners
Joshua Gilbert, CFO Outsource Consultant
Eric Feldman, Chief Information Officer, The Riverside Company
Simon Eyre, CISO, Drawbridge
14:35 - 15:25
Track C | Bots, Buzz & the Brave New world: How AI is Transforming the Now & Future of Private Funds (*and what a CFO can actually do with it)
Michael Patanella,
Steve Sims, CFA,
Peter Rosenstein,
Jill Lampert
- Getting started with current AI tools for risk assessment, processing financial data/valuation models, as well as investment discovery & deal sourcing
- Will AI be used to optimize investment portfolios based on current market conditions?
- How AI will be increasingly used to automate compliance processes – and what your firm can do to quickly adapt
Moderator: Michael Patanella, National Managing Principal, Asset Management Industry, Grant Thornton Advisors
Speaker:
Steve Sims, Chief Operating Officer and Chief Compliance Officer, Braemont
Peter Rosenstein, Chief Product Officer, Digital Solutions, Gen2
Jill Lampert, Chief Financial & Administrative Officer, NPG Energy Capital Management
14:35 - 15:25
Track D | Getting Global: Navigating New & Next geographical Markets, Domiciles & the Foreign Waters of the Future
Evelyn Pellicone ,
Steve Mlynar,
Karen McMonagle,
Omar Hassan
- The ins & outs of working with multinational providers & banks, cross-border fundraising tactics & regulatory impact when working in different domiciles
- How firms are communicating their product offerings for LPS & Assessing client needs as client bases are diversifying
- Weighing the risks, rewards and team preparation needed for potential pain points when venturing into the international market
Moderator: Evelyn Pellicone, Chief Financial Officer, Crestview Partners
Speaker:
Steve Mlynar, Senior Managing Director, CFO, Stonepeak
Karen McMonagle, Chief Financial Officer, Corsair Capital
Omar Hassan, Partner, CFO, Cloverlay
15:25 - 15:55
Networking break
Executive Engagement Collaboratives
15:55 - 16:45
How It Works
These GP-Only deep dive, closed door think tank discussions will be led by two subject matter experts from 2 different sides of the industry and interwoven with group exercise or collaborative problem solving as it pertains to the session topic. These unique breakout sessions are an incredible opportunity for truly transparent talks and takeaways you won’t want to miss.
15:55 - 16:45
EEC A | Total Tax Deep-Dive: Navigating the Tax Trials, Tribulations & Effects of the 2024 Presidential Election
Deborah Fields,
Sara Verkest
- The Tax Impact of the 2024 Election
- Tax Planning Highlights- GP Concerns
Facilitators: Deborah Fields, Partner-Tax, KPMG
Sara Verkest, Managing Director-Global Head of Tax, KKR
15:55 - 16:45
EEC B | CFOverload: Successfully Managing Today’s Compliance Workload
Fang Fang Fu,
Jeff Bohl
- How are you keeping your financial records in place – Are there different needs to meet compliance protocols?
- At varied firms’ stages and AUM parameters, what are you most concerned with?
- Managing & Preparing for the Future of the dual hatted CFO/CCO
Facilitator:
Fang Fang Fu, CFO, Turnspire Capital Partners
Jeff Bohl, Chief Operating Officer, Ontra
15:55 - 16:45
EEC C | The Ins & Outs of Mastering Modern-Day Investor Reporting
Jeffrey Gilbert,
Chalene Ellis
- Understanding LP reporting expectations & aligning current reporting timelines with regulatory pressures
- What do varied types of investors expect? (i.e., institutional investor, individual investor, etc.)
- Facing requests for additional information outside of reports
Facilitators:
Jeffrey Gilbert, Chief Operating Officer & Chief Legal Officer, Carnelian Energy Capital
Chalene Ellis, Sr. Executive Director, Head of Fund Services – North America, CSC Global
15:55 - 16:45
EEC D | Staying Ahead: Exploring New Methods of Management for the CFO
Mark Feirman,
Aileen Keaney
- How to better organize your firm’s management fees and expenses
- Where firms are currently allocating cash & and how to budget efficiently to keep the firm afloat
- Get the download on the benefits of various fund types as a manager
Facilitator:
Mark Feirman, CFO and Partner, Cross Rapids Capital LP
Aileen Keaney, CFO, Ethos Capital
15:55 - 16:45
EEC E | Leveraging Technology Services to Drive Value
Eric Dirst,
Kevin Blake,
Brian Hanify
Facilitator: Eric Dirst, Chief Technology Advisor, Align Capital Partners
Kevin Blake, Chief Executive Officer, TechMD
Brian Hanify, Chief Revenue Officer, TechMD
Plenary
16:50 - 17:40
Vendor Voices: Adaptation, Agility & The Current Landscape of Private Funds
Jennifer Banzaca,
Danilsa Lopez,
Carrie McIntyre,
Arthy Kumar,
Paul Landi
This in-depth panel discussion will bring together a diverse group of experts hailing from the industry’s most innovative solution providers to share their unique insights & viewpoints on the state of Private Funds in 2025 – and far beyond. Join us for a frank, lively, future-facing panel discussion amongst those at the forefront of transformation, change and the rapid evolution taking place in the industry right now. Interactive audience Q&A to follow.
Moderator: Jennifer Banzaca, Senior Reporter – Private Funds CFO, PEI
Speaker: Danilsa Lopez, Partner, Audit Service, Grant Thronton
Carrie McIntyre, CEO & Partner, Viridis
Arthy Kumar, Industry Principal, Workiva
Paul Landi, Senior Solutions Consultant, FIS Captial Markets
17:40 - 17:45
Closing remarks
End of Day 1
17:45 - 18:45
Cocktail reception
Agenda
Day 2 - Wednesday 5th
08:00 - 09:30
Breakfast
Private Funds CFO Network Membership Circle Breakfasts (Network members only)
08:15 - 08:55
Women
Karishma Chaudhary,
Sheenam Chadha
Delegates will enjoy breakfast at breakout sessions based on membership circle involvement.
Karishma Chaudhary, CFO, X10 Capital Management
Sheenam Chadha, Chief Financial Officer, Sandbrook Capital
08:15 - 08:55
Venture Capital
Sunil Rao,
Ray Updyke
Delegates will enjoy breakfast at breakout sessions based on membership circle involvement.
Facilitator: Sunil Rao, COO and CFO, Plum Alley Ventures Company
Raymond Updyke, Senior VP, Operations & Finance, Alpaca VC
08:15 - 08:55
Emerging Managers
Jesse Knapel,
Bethany Foullois
08:15 - 08:55
Secondaries
Chaim Langer,
Sadik Jakupaj
Delegates will enjoy breakfast at breakout sessions based on membership circle involvement.
Facilitator: Chaim Langer, Managing Director, Goldman Sachs
Sadik Jakupaj, Partner & COO, Morgan Stanley
Invite-only think tanks
09:00 - 09:50
How It Works
Delegates will have the opportunity to break into think tank sessions by job function to discuss what is keeping them up and night and to share best practices for addressing those problems. Designed to facilitate candid discussion, the closeddoor session for senior finance and operations professionals will top of mind issues and challenges impacting their firms today.
09:00 - 09:50
CFO & COO Think Tank for Emerging Funds (GP only)
Vijay Maharaj,
Katie Twomey
Facilitator: Vijay Maharaj, Chief Financial Officer & Chief Compliance Officer, Falcon Point Partners
Katie Twomey, Vice President of finance & Operations, Illumen
09:00 - 09:50
CFO & COO Think Tank for Established Funds (GP only)
Irene Willard,
Jamison Davis, CFA
09:00 - 09:50
Senior Finance & Operations Executive Think Tank (GP only)
Patty Nykodym,
Melissa Dickerson
Facilitators: Patty Nykodym, Chief Financial/Chief Compliance Officer, FFL Partners
Melissa Dickerson, Managing Director & CFO, Genstar Capital
Plenary
10:00 - 10:05
Chair’s opening remarks
Noah Becker
Noah Becker, Chief Financial Officer, LLR Partners
10:05 - 10:50
Fireside Chat with Catherine Addona-Peña
Graham Bippart,
Catherine Addona Pena
This in-depth Keynote Fireside Chat will explore the increasingly omnipresent role of risk management in today’s operating environment – you’ll walk away with a deeper understanding of key risk considerations when operationalizing and integrating artificial intelligence platforms, a view into the emerging risks and challenges facing operators in 2025, and how to continually promote a proactive culture of risk management across your organization.
Moderator: Graham Bippart, Senior Editor, Capital Markets and Compliance, PEI Group
Speaker: Catherine Addona Pena, Chief Risk Officer, Nasdaq
10:50 - 11:20
Networking break
Professional Development Workshops
11:20 - 12:05
Track A | Leveling Up: Leveraging the Power of Leadership
Alice Mann
These sessions are designed to provide insights and tips for individual success in their roles and how to best support their firms.
- Defining leadership and what it means to be a leader in today’s working world
- Understanding where and when to voice your opinions
- Team building & striking a balance between creating independent and collaborative team members
Facilitator:
Alice Mann, Founder and Managing Partner, Mann Partners
11:20 - 12:05
Track B | Leadership in Complex, Risk-Filled Environments
Tracey Abbott
These sessions are designed to provide insights and tips for individual success in their roles and how to best support their firms.
- Adapting leadership styles to manage uncertainty
- How effective leaders turn risk into results
- Leadership resilience and turning adversity into opportunity
Facilitator: Tracey Abbott CEO, T. Abbott Enterprises
11:20 - 12:05
Track C | Supporting and aligning with next generation talent
Caroline Young
These sessions are designed to provide insights and tips for individual success in their roles and how to best support their firms.
- Adjusting to culture changes when employing younger people (i.e., communication styles, working environments, etc.)
- How to re-establish a culture?
- Getting an understanding of employee expectations before it’s too late
- What can CFOs do to coach and mentor junior colleagues?
Facilitator:
Caroline Young, Founder, Craftsbury Consulting
11:20 - 12:05
Track D | Channeling New Methods of Change Management
Melissa Mounce
These sessions are designed to provide insights and tips for individual success in their roles and how to best support their firms.
- Understanding your audience: tailoring messages to different stakeholders
- Defining key performance indicators (KPIs) for success
- Managing conflict: turning challenges into opportunities
Facilitator: Melissa Mounce Mithal, PE Insider, Advisor & Board Director, Right Arm Advisors
Now, New, Next: Fund & Cash Strategies Future Facing Panel Discussions
12:10 - 13:00
How It Works
Choose from 3 top of mind topic options, as diverse groupings of the brightest minds in the business openly discuss their journeys, pitfalls, and victories while they discuss their approaches to implementing new fund types and accessing cash in today’s market – and the lessons they’ve learned along the way. Forget the crystal ball – this is an IRL look at what’s to come.
Interactive audience Q&A throughout- so don’t forget to submit questions ahead of time via the event app – or be bold and raise your hand to get the discussion going live as we pass the mic around!
12:10 - 13:00
Track A | Market Overview: Secondaries in 2025 & Beyond
Vishal Shah,
Mike Witkowski,
Blake Bennett,
John Cannaverde
- Understanding the demand for this fund type in the market & what steps to take when launching a first-time secondaries fund
- What is the regulatory perspective on traditional and GP led secondaries?
- Assessing valuation strategies and methods in light implementing new fund vehicles
Moderator: Vishal Shah, Chief Product Officer, TresVista
Speaker:
Mike Witkowski, CFO and Partner, Primary Venture Partners
Blake Bennett, Chief Financial Officer & Chief Compliance Officer, Revelstoke Capital Partners
John Cannaverde, Fund Controller, Portfolio Advisors
12:10 - 13:00
Track B | The Lowdown on NAV loans
Chris Tamms,
Aaron Simkovich,
Joshua Cherry-Seto,
Christopher Wolf
- How are LP proceeds used and reinvested back into the portfolio or used to create a synthetic distribution?
- How mitigate some of the concerns around the use of NAV loans
- Getting greater transparency from potential and existing managers
Moderator: Chris Tamms, Head of Network, PEI
Speakers:
Aaron Simkovich, Managing Director & Chief Financial Officer, Maranon Capital, L.P.
Joshua Cherry-Seto, Partner, CFO, StartUp Health
Christopher Wolf, CFO, MPM BioImpact
12:10 - 13:00
Track C | Exploring Emerging Trends in Subscription Line Lending
Shant Mardirossian,
Kyle Wool,
Ommer Chohan,
Béla Schwartz,
Denis Laloy
- What is the demand and availability in the market for subscription lines?
- What liquidity challenges does the investors face as a result of the less frequent, but significantly larger, capital calls?
- What effects subscription line lending can have on reported fund performance figures
Moderator: Shant Mardirossian, Partner & Chief Operating Officer, Kohlberg & Company
Speaker:
Kyle Wool, Chief Financial Officer, Energy Impact Partners
Ommer Chochan, CFO, Atlas Venture
Bela Schwartz, Chief Financial Officer, The Riverside Company
Denis Laloy, CFO, Factorial Funds
13:00 - 14:00
Networking luncheon
Carousel Discussions
14:10 - 15:30
How It Works
Following our popular roundtable and think tank formats, peers will sit down at tables to determine best practices on specific topics and their sharing ideas. At the end of each topic, tables will report back to the whole room on their approaches to addressing their challenges.
14:10 - 15:30
Carousel 1 | Optimizing your finance team for emerging funds
Michaele Gobel
- Trial and error: how are you establishing the best processes and procedures to drive success?
- What tasks should and can be outsourced?
- Determining when it’s time to expand the team internally
Room Facilitator: Michaele Gobel, CFO, Equilibrium
14:10 - 15:30
Carousel 2 | Optimizing your finance team for established funds
Jason Kaslow
Room Facilitator: Jason Kaslow, Chief Financial & Chief Compliance Officer, Tiger Infrastructure Partners
Jason Kaslow
Chief Financial Officer & Chief Compliance Officer, Tiger Infrastructure Partners
Read bio
14:10 - 15:30
Carousel 3 | Addressing fundraising in today’s economy for emerging funds
Aaron Chan
- Is the fundraising market slowing down and what can the finance team do to elevate the fundraising journey and process across the firm?
- Using existing and predictive data to make sharper decisions
- Building prosperous relationships with banks and lenders & the impact global affairs have on the private market fundraising environment (i.e., U.S. presidential election, global conflict, inflation, regulatory scrutiny, etc.)
Room Facilitator: Aaron Chan, Chief Financial Officer, Enlightened Hospitality Investments
14:10 - 15:30
Carousel 4 | Addressing fundraising in today’s economy for established funds
Sarah Tomolonius
- Is the fundraising market slowing down and what can the finance team do to elevate the fundraising journey and process across the firm?
- Using existing and predictive data to make sharper decisions
- Building prosperous relationships with banks and lenders & the impact global affairs have on the private market fundraising environment (i.e., U.S. presidential election, global conflict, inflation, regulatory scrutiny, etc.)
Room Facilitator: Sarah Tomolonius, Partner, Head of Investor Relations, M13
15:30 - 16:00
Networking break
Plenary
16:00 - 16:50
New Faces of Finance
Noah Becker,
Maryna Higgins,
Carly Altieri,
Peter Keenan
The private markets industry is embracing a younger, more diverse talent pool. This session will feature CFOs and COOs who have been recognized in our Private Funds CFO New Faces of Finance list. We’ll dive into topics such as:
- Major accomplishments they’ve been crucial in bringing about at their firms
- How to approach leadership and innovation as younger professionals
- What it takes to become a future leader in private funds finance
Moderator: Noah Becker, Chief Financial Officer, LLR Partners
Speaker: Maryna Higgins, Director of Finance, Quona
Carly Altieri, Principal, Victory Park Capital
Pete Keenan, Vice President of Finance, 645 Ventures
16:50 - 17:00
Closing remarks and End of conference
Noah Becker
Noah Becker, Chief Financial Officer, LLR Partners
2025 Speakers
Contact Kellie Green at kellie.g@pei.group for 2026 speaking opportunities.
Justin Brimfield
Managing Director, Head of ICD Marketing and Partnerships, ICD, a Tradeweb business
Norm Champ
Former Director of the Division of Investment Management, U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission
Connect with CFOs, COOs and their teams
The Private Funds CFO conferences enable providers to highlight their unique expertise to private equity’s most influential network of c-suite decision-makers. Sponsorship gives you:
- VIP access
- Thought-leadership opportunities
- High-profile branding
- And much more…
For more information on available sponsorship opportunities please contact Josh Stoller at joshua.s@pei.group.
2025 Sponsors
Convene Brookfield Place
225 Liberty St, New York, NY 10019
Here is a list of hotel accommodations for easy access to the event.
Where CFOs, COOs and CCOs connect, learn and grow
Value that extends beyond the event
Expand your network, build lasting relationships and discuss opportunities that will help take your firm to the next level with the Private Funds CFO Network.
The Network’s dedicated membership team will ensure your experience at the New York Forum is first class with personalized introductions, timely roundtable discussions and much more.
Unlock your firm’s potential at the Forum and beyond when you join the Private Funds CFO Network.
Expand your private funds Network
Connect with a carefully curated network of private equity CFOs, COOs, and other top leaders during events year-round.
CFOs-focused professional development
Network events are specifically crafted for executive leadership, with many CPE credits available.
Stay up-to-date on industry strategies
The industry’s top CFOs gather to share their solutions to the most pressing issues at Network events. Don’t miss out on optimizing your firm.
Discover the top CFO Network
Connect with a carefully curated network of top CFOs, COOs, CCOs and other private equity decision-makers from leading firms.
The Network’s dedicated membership team will ensure your experience at the New York Forum is first class with personalized introductions and timely roundtable discussions.
Connect with top CFOs, COOs, CCOs, build lasting relationships and discuss opportunities that will help take your firm to the next level.
Stay up-to-date on the latest private market trends, compliance changes and industry-leading operational and finance strategies.
Unlock your firm’s potential for scalable growth and stay prepared for the future at the Forum and beyond with the Private Funds CFO Network.
Better connections with the Private Funds CFO Network
Purchase a 12 month membership to attend this Forum, and enjoy exclusive access to:
- Our network directory of top CFOs, COOs and other private equity leaders
- Preferential rates to attend other Network events in London, New York, San Jose and Chicago
- Invite-only peer groups, monthly virtual meetings and knowledge hubs for deeper insights
- and so much more…
Our Network makes decisions that shape markets
The Private Funds CFO Network is a trusted community of private equity CFOs, CCOs and COOs, with a wide range of resources, thought leadership and more. The Network provides members with essential information on market trends, compliance topics, regulatory insights, useful tools, online and in-person events and a comprehensive resource library. Members have access to behind-the-scenes, closed-door conversations among a community of peers who share their knowledge and expertise within our trusted Network.
Stay connected with the top CFO community
Kevin Gasque
Partner, COO, CFO and CCO, Greycroft
It is great to not only have quality networking opportunities but also valuable content. I believe The Network is the best available resource for those in roles…
Michaele Gobel
Chief Financial Officer, Equilibrium
The Network provides rich, deep content and events alongside a unique personal touch from the PEI team. I feel more engaged than ever and the Network creates no…
Pre-Event Resources
2025 Advisory Board
Contact Kellie Green at kellie.g@pei.group for 2026 speaking opportunities.
Thanks for your interest
Thank you for your interest in the Private Funds CFO Network New York Forum.
Your requested resource will be sent to the email address you provided.
Explore our event website to learn more about the 23rd annual forum, and be sure to secure your place when you’re ready.
We hope to see you in New York City in February.