The interview below is part of an ongoing effort by McGuireWoods to profile women leaders in private equity (PE) and finance. To read previous profiles, click here. To recommend a woman for a future interview, email [email protected].
Sarah Mahosky is a senior associate with Align Capital Partners (ACP). Mahosky, who joined ACP’s Dallas office in 2023, is responsible for evaluating and executing new investments and supporting ongoing portfolio company initiatives. Prior to joining ACP, Mahosky was an investment banking analyst at Harris Williams, where she focused on mergers and acquisitions for healthcare companies. Mahosky has a B.B.A. in finance from the University of Texas at Austin.
Q: What was your path to PE, and what attracted and concerned you about this career?
Sarah Mahosky: I was drawn to PE because it offers the opportunity to learn quickly, contribute meaningfully and collaborate with a team to drive real impact. At ACP, I get to work hands-on with new investments and existing portfolio companies, balancing independent ownership with team-based problem-solving and mentorship. Beyond our internal team, I also engage with a network of partners including legal counsel, accountants, lenders and investment bankers, which keeps the work dynamic and rewarding.
What solidified my interest in PE — and ACP — are our core values: we work as a team, appreciate our partners, do what we say and strive to get better every day. These principles show up in how we operate and how we treat each other.
That said, PE can be intimidating. It’s a competitive industry, and it’s easy to feel like you’re not “ready” or “qualified.” I encourage women — and anyone considering this path — to lean into their strengths, be honest about their weaknesses and draw confidence from their experiences. Everyone brings something unique to the table, and if you’re open and eager to learn, you’ll find your place and thrive.
Q: How do you believe women will be able to influence the PE industry, particularly as the career path continues to evolve?
SM: I believe women in my generation are helping reshape the narrative around what it means to succeed in PE. We bring the same drive, work ethic and ambition that have always defined the industry, while showing that there’s more than one path to success. Whether it’s on the investment team, in business development or investor relations, we’re proving that women can thrive across all areas of PE.
Visibility also matters. By showing up, doing the work and advancing in our careers, we’re creating a clearer path for the next generation of women to follow. Mentorship plays a big role in that. I’ve been fortunate to have women go out of their way to support and guide me, and I try to pay that forward whenever I can. Encouragement and representation are key to building momentum and to making the industry more inclusive and accessible for those coming next.
Q: Why is it important for more women to pursue careers in PE?
SM: Women make up more than 50% of the population, and when we’re underrepresented, the industry misses out on valuable talent, different perspectives and diverse experiences. PE demands creativity and differentiation, especially as competition intensifies, and diverse teams are better equipped to deliver innovative solutions and stronger outcomes. When decision-making reflects a broader range of viewpoints, the results benefit everyone, from investors to portfolio companies to the teams driving the work.
Q: What is a lesson you learned concerning what’s required for success in PE?
SM: I’ve found that PE has a huge learning curve. You don’t have to be the smartest person in the room to be successful. Working hard, listening and learning from your previous experiences are equally as important.
I’ve also realized how important it is to find a firm that aligns with your values and interests. PE is demanding and time-intensive, but when you’re surrounded by like-minded people who share a common goal, the work becomes more meaningful. Culture matters, and thriving in this industry comes down to being part of a team that brings out your best.
To contact Sarah Mahosky, email [email protected].