Private equity firm General Atlantic has appointed Eric Zhang, former Global Partner and Managing Director of The Carlyle Group, as Managing Director and Head of China. Zhang will lead the firm’s investments in growth companies across China.
“We are excited to build upon our 16 years of experience partnering with leading entrepreneurs and growth companies in China,” says Bill Ford, Chief Executive Officer of General Atlantic. “Eric’s impressive track record in Asia, deep local expertise, and proven ability to invest in and partner with outstanding companies make him an ideal leader for our local team and long-term efforts in China.”
General Atlantic has been investing in China since 2000 and has invested USD1.5 billion in 17 different investments. General Atlantic currently has four offices in Asia located in Beijing, Hong Kong, Singapore, and Mumbai.
“General Atlantic has capitalised on the emergence of innovative entrepreneurs and rapidly scaling companies. GA’s unique global capability and unparalleled experience working with growth companies make GA the partner of choice for disruptive companies in China. I look forward to building and leading the firm’s presence in China for many years to come,” says Zhang.
Zhang joins General Atlantic from The Carlyle Group where he worked as Global Partner and Managing Director focused on buyout and growth investments across Asia from 2006 to 2016. At Carlyle, he led numerous successful private equity transactions.
Previously, Zhang was a Vice President in the Mergers and Acquisitions group at Credit Suisse based in Hong Kong. Prior to that, he was a Vice President in the Investment Banking department at China International Capital Corporate Limited. Zhang received his master’s degree in economics from Shanghai University of Finance and Economics.
