Permira brings in former Dutch deputy PM as adviser

British private equity giant Permira has hired Gerrit Zalm, the former deputy prime minister and minister of finance of the Netherlands, as an adviser.

A broad role, Zalm will offer advice on business issues, the economy and the socio-political environment, helping the firm to find investment opportunities and support the growth of existing portfolio companies.

Zalm, 55, is the longest-serving Dutch minister of finance. He was minister in five Dutch cabinets from 1994 until 21 February 2007, and is known for, among other things, the implementation of a new budgeting system (the Zalm-norm).

“Gerrit Zalm is uniquely positioned to be of great value to Permira as the firm continues to grow and mature. Someone of his experience is a huge asset, not just in deepening our relationships and understanding in the Netherlands and beyond, but also in helping us to think about how we engage with a wider range of people,” said Permira’s managing partner Damon Buffini.