The OMERS Way

The $53 billion OMERS Private Equity has become a major direct investor in North America and Europe, but its origins are unlike those of most private equity firms. As detailed by its president and CEO, this affiliate of the Ontario Municipal Employees Retirement System (OMERS) has weened itself from participation in the private equity asset class through third-party funds and now deploys its long-term capital directly into private companies on behalf of its parent entity. In an extensive interview with Privcap, Paul Renaud details his firm”s investment appetites and capabilities, geographic expansion, its transition to direct investor and systematic cutting of ties with the general partners who once managed its substantial allocation to private equity.