Michael Gilbert

As a Senior Associate, Michael contributes to Carlson Private Capital’s deal underwriting and execution, relationship development, investment thesis development, and portfolio management.

Michael joined Carlson Private Capital Partners in 2021. Prior to Carlson, Michael worked at Harris Williams in the firm’s Consumer practice where he assisted in the execution of sell- and buy-side M&A transactions across the Food & Beverage and Specialty Distribution industries. During his time at Harris Williams, Michael worked on numerous transactions and focused on crafting marketing materials, creating valuation analyses, developing operating models, and managing and conducting due diligence. Michael graduated from the University of Minnesota with High Distinction and received a B.S. with a double major in Finance and Accounting from the Curtis L. Carlson School of Management.

Where did you grow up? I grew up about 15 minutes from downtown Milwaukee in the suburb of Brookfield. Yes, I am a Packer fan, but my favorite sport is hockey. I grew up playing travel hockey and was fortunate enough to have parents that would brave the hotels almost every weekend. While I lived in Wisconsin, I also spent a lot of my childhood in Upper Michigan on the shores of Lake Superior with my cousins fishing, swimming, and doing our best to stay out of trouble. Growing up in Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula instilled in me a deep appreciation for nature - if it's an activity that is outdoors, sign me up.

Perfect Saturday Waking up early to take my dog for a walk followed by a massive breakfast then going out to either explore a new park, try a new outdoor sport/activity, golf with friends, or bike/roller blade along the river. As the day turns into night, I have two paths I enjoy equally: going brewery hopping with friends or staying in for a nice home cooked meal and a movie.

Favorite Quote? “Anything worth doing is worth overdoing.”
- Fallen Navy Seal Shane Patton

What word best describes you? Dedicated

History with your own family businesses? My parents started a business and moved my sister and I from Indianapolis to the Milwaukee suburbs. As my parents started running their business full-time, my sister and I would go to school, then head to the family business to help in whatever way we could. This instilled a hard work ethic in me from a young age and a deep appreciation for the struggles and triumphs family/founder-owned businesses face. The experience was filled with memories that I wouldn't trade for the world.