Early Life and Education
Arthur Levine was born in Cleveland, Ohio. He has a background in academics, with his mother coming from a long line of rabbis. Levine is the son of Russian immigrants. He earned a Bachelor of Arts/Science degree from UCLA, a Master of Business Administration from the UCLA Anderson School of Management, and a J.D. from Columbia Law School, where he was a Harlan Fiske Stone Scholar. During his time at Columbia, he was involved in the humanities and edited The Columbia Review.
Rise to Success
Levine's career began in the radio industry as the president of Westwood One. In 1984, he co-founded Levine Leichtman Capital Partners (LLCP) with his wife, Lauren Leichtman. LLCP has managed a significant amount of institutional capital since its inception, including $10.2 billion in assets currently. The firm focuses on sectors like business services, franchising, and education. Successful exits have included Tropical Smoothie Cafe, Wetzel's Pretzels and Nothing Bundt Cakes.
Key Business Strategies
Levine has substantial experience in the operational management and value creation for middle-market companies. LLCP's strategy includes targeting specific sectors and focusing on successful exits. The firm's ability to navigate the complexities of private equity has been key to its success. In October 2024, Levine and Leichtman bought the National Women's Soccer League's San Diego Wave FC for $113 million.
Philanthropy
Arthur Levine, along with his wife Arlene, are philanthropists. In 2021, they made a $5 million commitment to advance facilities at North Shore University Hospital. They have also endowed the Arlene and Arthur Levine Professor in Clinical Ophthalmology.
