“I've always kind of abided by the principle of: it's good sometimes in life to get comfortable with being uncomfortable,” says Sylvester “Sly” Burley of his decision to join Avante Capital Partners in 2019. Up until that point in his career, Sly’s experience was in private equity. When he saw the opportunity to join a private credit platform that was sector agnostic and diverse, he couldn’t say no.

On this episode of Accessing the Pipeline, host and McGuireWoods partner Rubin Pusha III welcomes Sly, who recently was promoted from principal to partner at Avante Capital Partners, a woman- and minority-owned, lower middle market private credit firm. While Avante’s debt and equity investments span different industries, Sly particularly discusses the company’s success in the food and beverage sector, which seems to be a recession-proof industry.

Sly also discusses Avante’s goals for investments. Generally credit-focused, Avante looks for companies that provide good downside protection, a competitive advantage, diversification in its customer base and its vendor base, and stable and strong margins. For Sly, one of Avante’s biggest draws is its commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion. Avante strives to invest in a diverse ecosystem of the future.

Tune in to hear Sly talk about trends in sectors, how other investors can make the right deals for themselves, and how putting your money where your mouth is really pays off.

Featured Guest

Name: Sylvester “Sly” Burley

What he does: As a Partner at Avante Capital Partners, Sly identifies, underwrites, executes and manages investment opportunities. Sly has over twelve years of investing experience, across both private equity and private credit.

Company: Avante Capital Partners

Where to find Sly: LinkedIn

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