Why Private Equity? Why Seven2?
Maximilian strives to build future proof businesses through lasting business transformations and trusted relationships. He enjoys the close collaboration with ambitious entrepreneurs and supporting them throughout their next business stage (and beyond). He believes that his broad background in both operations and finance, allows him to be a valuable sparring partner that understands the business behind the numbers and vice versa.
Joining Seven2 aligns with Maximilian’s values due to the humble culture, +50 years of legacy, and deep sectorial focus. Maximilian further strengthens the firm’s focus on the DACH mid-market and its commitment to contribute to the success of entrepreneurs in this region.
What inspires Maximilian Kern?
Maximilian is inspired by a culture that is made up of three pillars: integrity and accountability, trusted relationships and close collaboration, and drive and commitment. He believes that this lays the foundation to achieve great outcomes – together with entrepreneurs, investors, advisors, and internally.
In his spare time, Maximilian follows ambitious goals in sports – from beating his personal record in long-distance running to pushing his limits in road cycling. In addition, he places high value on quality time with friends and family and on reading books, with a particular interest for founder stories and biographies of athletes.
Favourite quote?
“The stronger you are as a unit, the more you can control a race. The strongest cyclist in the world isn’t as strong as two guys, let alone nine.” – Mark Cavendish
Education and experience
Maximilian joined Seven2 as a Senior Associate in the German investment team in 2024. Previously, he worked for 5 years at McKinsey & Company with affiliation to the Private Equity & Principal Investors practice. During this time, he mainly advised mid-market private equity firms in investment decisions and engaged with their portfolio companies along value creation programs. In-between, he did a one-year secondment and led the exit process of a private equity owned global luxury brand in the lighting industry.
He holds a BSc in Mechanical Engineering from TU Munich, an MPhil in Manufacturing & Management from the University of Cambridge, and an MSc in Finance from the Imperial College London.
