In a recent ION Influencers fireside chat hosted by Giovanni Amodeo, Jennifer Delaney, Head of Investor Relations, Equity Private Markets, BlackRock shared her expert perspective on the evolving dynamics between General Partners (GPs) and Limited Partners (LPs) in private markets. With over two decades of experience spanning public and private markets, Delaney offered a nuanced view of how investor relations is transforming into a strategic, trust-driven discipline. Her insights reflect a pivotal shift: Investor Relations is no longer just about reporting—it’s about relationship-building, strategic clarity, and delivering value at every touchpoint.

Key Highlights

1. Trust is the New Currency

• LP experience is built on trust and transparency.
• Every interaction should reinforce credibility and partnership.

2. Always-On Fundraising

• The traditional fundraising cycle is outdated.
• IR must adopt a continuous engagement model, staying responsive year-round.

3. Thought Partnership Over Answers

• LPs seek strategic dialogue, not just data.
• IR teams should help LPs navigate uncertainty with insight and empathy.

4. Clarity in a Crowded Market

• GPs must clearly define:
  • Their unique value proposition
  • Why it matters to LPs
  • How it’s backed by data

5. Personalized, High-Frequency Engagement

• Mix of formal updates and informal touchpoints (e.g., sharing relevant articles).
• Tailored communication builds stronger LP relationships.

6. Complex Stakeholder Ecosystem

• LPs now engage with multiple teams across a firm.
• Coordination and internal alignment are critical.

7. Data Demand is Surging

• LPs want more data, faster, and in custom formats.
• Technology is key to scaling delivery while maintaining personalization.

8. The IR Decathlete

• IR professionals must be versatile—part strategist, communicator, analyst, and event planner.
• Delaney’s strength: deep portfolio knowledge + emotional intelligence.

9. Evolving Skillsets

• IR is becoming a core strategic function.
• Expect more hiring and specialization within IR teams.

 
Key timestamps:

00:07 Introduction to the Fireside Chats
01:39 Understanding Customer Experience in Investor Relations
02:22 Market Trends: The Divide Between Large and Small Funds
03:37 The Importance of Responsiveness in Fundraising
05:13 Articulating Unique Selling Propositions
05:52 The Evolving Nature of Fundraising
07:16 Building Trust Through Frequent Interactions
08:49 Complexity of LP Relationships
09:55 Involving Colleagues in Investor Relations
11:44 Tailoring Due Diligence for LPs
12:53 Investor Days and Communication Strategies
14:35 Skills Evolution in Investor Relations
18:29 Identifying Strengths in Investor Relations
19:21 The Demand for Data in Investor Relations
20:36 Customization and Technology in Data Delivery
21:35 Finding Competitive Edges in Data Transparency
23:46 The Increasing Sophistication of LPs
24:35 Growth of Investor Relations Roles
26:09 Building Relationships in Investor Relations