Today on Take the Stage, we are shining the spotlight on Peter Washington. Peter is Managing Director and Head of Originations for The Copia Group, a diverse-founded and led firm that provides debt and equity capital solutions to lower middle-market companies. His journey is marked by over two decades of experience as a credit investment professional at firms such as CapX Partners and the Northern Trust Company. From attending a non-target school to making a name for himself on Wall Street and defying odds after the Great Financial Crisis of 2008, Peter takes us through his journey and shares insight on navigating your career path, diversity in the space, and the importance of work-life balance.

Episode Outline and Highlights

[1:13] Peter reflects on his 23-year journey in the credit and lending business, including experiences with Bank of America, the Northern Trust Company, a 14-year tenure at Cap X Partners, to his current role with The Copia Group.

[6:20] We dig deeper into Peter's early path, from encounters in high school and finance classes at Florida A&M that ultimately drove him to a career in credit and lending.

[13.46] Peter finance journey is marked by key moments: valuing underwriting skills, engaging with clients' stories, and closing his first independent deal in 2013. Witnessing a company's growth from $5M revenue to a public listing in 2019 fuels his passion for finance.

[20:10] Peter describes The Copia Group's focus on underserved borrowers in the lower middle market, its three core beliefs, and their mission to bridge credit access disparities for women and diverse entrepreneurs.

[33:28] Peter discusses how working with leaders who prioritize family values has been invaluable in his career and explains how transitioning from singlehood to family life taught him the importance of a supportive work environment.

[38:13] Peter gives three pieces of advice to the next generation of investment professionals.

[45:34] Peter explains that the journey isn't linear; inflection points shape it. Despite challenges, qualities like quality work, humility, hunger, and self-belief are vital.

Connect with our guest

Peter Washington's LinkedIn

The Copia Group | LinkedIn

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