Today on Take the Stage, we are shining the spotlight on Rocio Heres. Rocio is the Managing Director at AltamarCAM Capital Partners where she is currently co-head of the New York office and a member of Altamar’s 10-person US investment team. She has led an extensive number of deals in the US, Latin America, and Europe, focusing on GP-led restructurings in the LMM. Originally from Northern Spain, she has been residing in New York for the past six years.

Episode Outline and Highlights

[1:00] Rocio walks us through her international career that spans three countries - Spain, Chile, and the United States. After five years with Altamar, and upon the successful setup of a new office in South America, she was moved to NYC to open Altamar's first US office where she currently serves as MD.

[4:30] Being a foreigner, a woman, and a non-native English speaker, Rocio discusses living outside her comfort zone and overcoming those challenges. She attributes it through work ethic and effort, the need to work harder and longer.

[10:00] Reflection time! Rocio looks back at the start of her professional career and with the benefit of hindsight offers what she would have changed - avoid self-limiting beliefs, be more confident, work hard and be patient!

[12:45] What does being named in Next Gen Leaders of Secondaries (2021 list), which spotlights the 20 most influential people (and being one of only 20 women and the only MD listed) mean to Rocio? Humbled and honored by the recognition which proved her hard work, she didn’t expect it even though she aspired to be included on it.

[15:00] What would it take to increase the number of women on similar lists in the future? Rocio details that by looking at past lists, the trend is already apparent and trending upward. She also thinks that by supporting female talent, be it candidates or colleagues, will help ensure that no one feels alone as she once did. More flexibility will also help. Lastly, women should understand that they are deserving and finance positions are for them, too.

[18:00] Is there a misconception by women of work life and personal life balance within PE? Rocio thinks it’s misunderstood and that it does exist.

[20:15] Rocio’s take on diversity within the PE space - more and more investors are asking for it. Having diversity within investment teams makes them stronger and allows for better investment decisions. It’s becoming more important and LP’s already have in mind that they should support diversity.

Rocio Heres' LinkedIn

AltamarCAM Capital Website | LinkedIn

Connect with Alexis Alvarez on LinkedIn | alexis@career-rockstars.com