Early Life and Education
Behdad Eghbali was born in Iran on May 6, 1976, and moved to the United States with his family as a child. He attended the Haas School of Business at the University of California, Berkeley, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration with a finance focus. This academic background provided him with a strong foundation in financial management and corporate strategy.
Rise to Success
Eghbali's professional journey began in investment banking at Morgan Stanley in the technology group and later in the mergers and acquisitions group at Jefferies Broadview. He then joined TPG Capital, where he focused on buyouts and turnarounds. In 2006, he co-founded Clearlake Capital with José E. Feliciano. Under his leadership, Clearlake Capital has grown into a major player in the private equity sector.
Key Business Strategies
Clearlake Capital employs a sector-focused approach, concentrating on technology, industrials, and consumer sectors. The firm is recognized for its operational improvement strategy, known as O.P.S.®, which enhances the performance of its portfolio companies through hands-on management and strategic guidance. This approach has led to significant returns and positioned Clearlake as a trusted partner for businesses seeking transformation. In May 2022, Clearlake Capital led a consortium to acquire Chelsea Football Club, showcasing Eghbali's ability to diversify into sports and entertainment.
Philanthropy
Eghbali is involved in several non-profit organizations, including his family foundation, the Noor Foundation, which focuses on youth development. He also serves on the board of the International Society for Children with Cancer. In 2024, Eghbali paid £56 million for a penthouse in Grosvenor Square in London's Mayfair district.
