Lincoln International adds Darren O’Brien as Managing Director, expanding private funds Advisory capabilities and coverage

New hire bolsters expertise in strategic alternatives for private equity firms

Lincoln International, a global investment banking advisory firm, is pleased to announce the addition of Darren O’Brien as Managing Director in the Private Funds Advisory (PFA) Group in Chicago. Darren brings nearly two decades of private markets experience and expertise in continuation vehicles (CVs), liquidity solutions and capital-raising strategies, further enhancing Lincoln’s ability to deliver capital solutions products to private equity (PE) firms and limited partners (LPs).

“As the CV market continues to grow and fundraising conditions remain uncertain, strategic alternatives have become increasingly important,” said Steve Carre, Managing Director & global co-head of Lincoln’s PFA Group. Darren’s expertise in CVs and his diverse private equity and investment banking background will help support our growth. By combining his product experience with Lincoln’s depth of knowledge across sectors, we can provide a compelling combination of product and industry expertise to clients.”

Since its inception in 2022, Lincoln’s PFA Group has grown to more than 15 professionals and closed nearly 20 transactions, representing more than $5.5 billion in enterprise value and $4 billion in fund commitments.

“This is a great time for Darren to join the team,” said Dan Posternak, Managing Director & global co-head of Lincoln’s PFA group. “Regardless of market dynamics, clients are increasingly evaluating alternative structures to support their investment strategies and enhance LP relationships —from continuation vehicles and co-investments to securing interim capital.”

“I am excited to join Lincoln International’s world-class platform,” Darren said. “I look forward to collaborating across the firm to design innovative capital and transaction strategies for our clients.”

Prior to joining Lincoln International, Darren was a Managing Director at Campbell Lutyens, where he focused on GP-led secondary transactions and innovative liquidity solutions. His career also includes roles across private equity, large asset management and investment banking firms. Darren earned a Master of Business Administration from the Yale School of Management and a Bachelor of Business Administration from Loyola University Chicago.