Michael Fisch's Career
Since its inception, Michael Fisch has been the Founder and CEO of American Securities, the private equity firm he established in 1994. For more than three decades, he has led the firm’s investment strategy and growth, working closely with management teams to build enduring businesses.
Early Career
Michael earned a BA in Economics and Policy Studies from Dartmouth College and an MBA from Stanford University’s Graduate School of Business.
In 1983, after graduating from college, he started as a Financial Analyst in the Mergers and Acquisitions Department at Goldman Sachs. He later worked for Bain & Company as a summer associate while in business school and thereafter worked for two private equity firms before becoming, in 1993, a financial advisor to The William Rosenwald Family Office, whose family built Sears, Roebuck & Company.
He credits these early positions for developing his investment philosophy, execution capabilities, strategic thinking, and leadership, which have enabled his success in private equity and investment management.
Founding American Securities
In 1994, Michael founded American Securities with the goal of partnering with existing management teams to support long-term business growth.
American Securities partners with market-leading U.S. businesses with growth potential, working closely with CEOs and their leadership teams to improve operations, scale strategically, and build sustainable value.
The firm has been recognized by private equity industry organizations for its culture, support of portfolio company management, and investment approach. In recent years, American Securities received recognition in GrowthCap’s List of Top Private Equity Firms, Inc.’s Founder-Friendly Investors List, and was honored with the Mergers & Acquisitions’ Best Places to Work in Private Equity Award. The firm also earned a Great Place To Work® certification.
Growth of American Securities
As CEO, Michael has led American Securities through significant growth, with the firm and its affiliates raising over $26 billion in committed private equity capital across nine funds and making more than 80 platform investments.
The firm focuses on North American companies with annual revenues at acquisition between $200 million and $2 billion, emphasizing continuous operational improvement and disciplined growth.
Leadership Approach
Michael’s investment approach emphasizes partnership with management teams. At American Securities, he works closely with CEOs and company leadership to support operational improvement, strategic growth, and disciplined capital allocation.
This model aligns investors and management around long-term value creation.
Industry Engagement and Recognition
Michael’s leadership extends beyond American Securities through his academic and industry contributions. He has been a distinguished guest lecturer at Stanford University’s Graduate School of Business since 2006 and has spoken at many leading industry events and media outlets.
He is also deeply engaged in organizational leadership and philanthropy, serving on boards and leadership bodies for several institutions over many decades, including presently Northwell Health, Princeton Theological Seminary, and the Atlantic Council. In addition, he is a member of the President’s Leadership Council at Dartmouth and director of the 1162 Foundation.