David Bonderman, the co-founder of private equity firm TPG, passed away on September 15, 2023, at the age of 82. Bonderman was a highly respected figure in the private equity industry, known for his strategic investments and leadership in various sectors. His death marks the end of an era in the world of private equity, and his legacy will be remembered for generations to come.
Bonderman was born in 1941 in Los Angeles, California. He earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Washington and later received his law degree from Harvard Law School. After graduating from law school, Bonderman began his career as a lawyer, working for the law firm of Baker & McKenzie in New York City.
In 1992, Bonderman co-founded TPG, along with James Coulter, William S. Price III, and William Bain. The firm quickly gained a reputation for its strategic investments in various sectors, including technology, healthcare, and consumer goods. Under Bonderman’s leadership, TPG made several notable investments, including the acquisition of Continental Airlines, Neiman Marcus, and Caesars Entertainment.
Throughout his career, Bonderman was known for his strategic thinking and his ability to identify undervalued companies with growth potential. He was also a strong advocate for the private equity industry, often speaking publicly about the benefits of private equity investing.
Bonderman’s impact on the private equity industry extends beyond his work at TPG. He was a pioneer in the development of the private equity industry, and his firm’s success helped to establish private equity as a major player in the world of finance. He also played a key role in shaping the industry’s regulatory framework, advocating for clearer guidelines and greater transparency.
In addition to his work in private equity, Bonderman was also a dedicated philanthropist. He was a longtime supporter of the University of Washington, and he made several significant donations to the university’s business school. He also supported various other charitable causes, including the Boys and Girls Clubs of America and the National Park Foundation.
Bonderman’s death has been met with an outpouring of tributes from the private equity industry and beyond. His colleagues and peers have remembered him as a visionary leader, a brilliant investor, and a dedicated philanthropist.
“David was a true pioneer in the private equity industry, and his legacy will be felt for generations to come,” said Jim Coulter, co-founder and managing partner of TPG. “He was a brilliant investor, a gifted leader, and a dear friend. We will miss him dearly.”
Bonderman is survived by his wife, Laurie Michaels, and their two children, Samantha and Benjamin. He will be remembered as one of the most influential figures in the history of private equity, and his legacy will continue to shape the industry for years to come.
