Early Life
Lauren Leichtman was born in Los Angeles in 1949. Her upbringing was marked by her parents' divorce when she was young, instilling in her a strong sense of self-reliance. She worked various jobs from a young age to support herself, including roles as a bank teller and waitress, while pursuing her education. Her early career interest was in psychology before pivoting to law.
Rise to Success
Leichtman attended Southwestern Law School and later met Arthur Levine in 1975 at UCLA. They married in 1979. After a brief experience in a law firm, Leichtman began practicing law on her own, and the couple began investing their own capital. Together, they founded Levine Leichtman Capital Partners (LLCP) in 1984, a private equity firm that employed a unique approach known as structured equity. This strategy involved using a mix of debt and equity to fund companies without taking complete control, allowing founders to retain significant ownership.
Key Business Strategies
LLCP's success was built on a distinctive strategy of structured equity, which offered entrepreneurs capital while allowing them to maintain control of their businesses. This approach attracted major institutional investors, including CalPERS. LLCP has managed approximately $18.1 billion of capital across nearly 20 investment funds since its inception and has invested in approximately 120 portfolio companies. The firm's investments span across various sectors, including business services, franchising, education, and manufacturing.
Philanthropy
Leichtman and her husband have a family foundation that is dedicated to philanthropy. Their philanthropic efforts extend to education, women's health, and scientific research. Notable donations include a $1 million pledge to Southwestern Law School and support for UCLA, including endowed chairs. Furthermore, they have contributed to the support of programs and opportunities.
