Pitch Best Young Private Equity Manager 2022: Joost van der Sluis, Bolster Investment Partners

Company: Bolster Investment Partners 
Job Description: Senior Investment Manager 
Age: 34 

What are the specialties of this talent? 
Joost is a rare breed within the Dutch PE industry. His analytical skills are way above standard, which is not a surprise given his impressive study background. He has finished Masters in both Aerospace Engineering and Econometrics. He has worked as an aerospace engineer at KLM and after that as a research analyst in the dealing room of Kempen & Co, both challenging environments in which he stood his ground.  

Since joining Bolster in 2017, Joost has developed himself into an experienced PE professional. He managed to quickly master all relevant and necessary competences with great dedication and is still eager to learn every day.  

During his years at Bolster, he has been involved in numerous platform deals, add-ons and exits. Furthermore he has been the driving force behind strategic plans for several portfolio companies. Those plans have formed the foundation for impressive growth of these companies. Most of all, he is a very pleasant colleague. Down-to-earth, approachable, always willing to help. 

How does the talent distinguish itself from its peers? 
His abovementioned analytical skills and his determination to go the extra mile and strive for perfection. 

What impact does the talent have within the organization?  
Joost has a “leave it to me” mentality. He is self-starting, delivers on his promises and has excellent project management skills. He is the go-to guy when a colleague has questions about all aspects of our business. He proactively comes up with ideas to take Bolster and our portfolio companies to the next level. 

What impact does the talent have outside the organization?  
He has the ability to build relationships and make impact on all levels within our portfolio companies. He is not afraid to give his opinion and people really value that opinion, mostly because they know it’s well thought about.  

Joost is mostly involved with production companies within the Bolster portfolio. His engineering background enables him to discuss at the same level as the operational and technical teams at these companies. 

To what extent does the talent make the difference to clients?  
He is trustworthy, down to earth, approachable and always eager to help. Over the last few years there have been numerous occasions in which he acted as a trusted advisor and sparring partner for management teams of our portfolio companies. Whether it is an add-on acquisition, an intense exit process or the difficult choice which way to go strategically, Joost is there to assist to ensure the best outcome. 

Why does the talent deserve this nomination? 
Joost has shown a steep learning curve, from being an Aerospace engineer at KLM to an allround PE professional. His achievements speak for themselves. He has been involved in a number of very successful investments, add-ons and divestments and has played a pivotal role in the development of our portfolio companies and of Bolster. Moreover, he’s a great guy to work with. Needless to say all colleagues at Bolster are convinced he deserves this award. 

Any references or recommendations from clients or (colleagues)? 
N.a.