Growth Through Disciplined Execution
BDO’s 2026 Private Equity Survey reveals how private equity leaders investing in professional services firms are pursuing acquisition-led growth while sharpening diligence, addressing talent constraints and prioritizing pricing and sales growth.
Based on responses from 136 PE firms that invest in professional services, the spotlight examines the risks, capabilities and value creation priorities shaping investment decisions.
What Professional Services PE Leaders Should Know
Professional services investors are looking beyond the initial transaction thesis. The spotlight explores how commercial discipline and people-focused execution can help translate growth plans into stronger outcomes.
of professional services investors say new platform acquisitions will be their primary use of dry powder in the next year.
Key Takeaways
Diligence findings can alter deployment plans
29% of professional services investors identify risk exposure uncovered during due diligence as their leading challenge to deploying capital.
Talent shortages are affecting deal execution
50% identify finding and retaining the right people as the primary internal limit to deal execution.
Acquisitions are supporting growth
Platform acquisitions are helping investors establish new avenues for growth.
Pricing and sales growth are supporting value creation
28% identify pricing and sales growth as the value creation strategy likely to have the most impact this year.
Sponsors are maintaining exit flexibility
Sponsors are balancing growth plans with future liquidity options.
2026 Private Equity Survey
Explore the full report and insights from all 400 respondents.
Methodology
This spotlight reflects responses from 136 PE firms that invest in professional services. BDO’s 2026 Private Equity Survey polled 400 U.S. PE fund managers and operating partners in May 2026 to understand their strategies as well as the opportunities and challenges on the horizon for the next 12 months. The survey was conducted by Rabin Roberts Research.
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