Meet the Team: Hedvig Næss Olstad
In this series, we're excited to shine a light on the people who make Credo Partners what it is. Today, meet Hedvig Næss Olstad, an investment manager with a knack for spotting growth opportunities and a passion for skiing. Below, she shares insights into her role, what drives her, and a few personal highlights from her journey so far.

What led you to join Credo Partners, and what has kept you here for four years?
Before Credo, I was in consulting, mainly focused on strategy, business development, and M&A. I wanted something more immersive—where I could dive deeper and partner closely with founders and management teams. Four years in, I'm still drawn to the close collaboration we get with our co-owners and teams, giving me a real 360° perspective of each business and its place in the market. Helping companies break into new spaces and take a leading role there is especially rewarding.

Can you walk us through your role and responsibilities as a manager at Credo?
The day-to-day varies, which keeps things interesting. We’re a small, hands-on team, so I’m involved in everything from setting strategy to making it happen. I typically work with two or three portfolio companies at a time, collaborating directly with management and the board to set and execute on strategy. I've done quite a lot of “buy and build” cases, where I get to work with local founders, figuring out who to acquire and how to blend them into the bigger picture. My role covers a lot of ground—strategy, operations, transactions—so there’s always something new.

Is there a “typical” day in your role?
Not really—it’s always varied! I might start with meetings on portfolio updates, then dive into assessing potential investments or work on a project like M&A or strategic initiatives. We’re all pretty hands-on, which means I get to be involved from the initial idea to the last steps, and I really enjoy that.

How did your journey lead you to Credo, and what were some pivotal moments?
I studied finance at the Norwegian School of Economics and briefly thought about a law career before realizing finance was my true interest. Along the way, I had internships in finance, M&A, and consulting, which led me into management consulting. Working on strategic and operational projects with investment firms was a big “aha” moment—I knew then that private equity was where I wanted to be. Credo’s focus on long-term growth and being a sparring partner to portfolio companies really spoke to me.

Outside of work, what are your passions?
I love skiing—mostly downhill but some cross-country, too. I try to ski at least once a week in the winter season, often with my colleagues, and we’ve even had some great trips to the Alps and Hemsedal together.

Fun fact that people might be surprised to learn about you?
I spent part of my childhood in Shanghai and still remember some Chinese songs and dances. It’s a special part of my life, and I love going back to visit.

Three emojis that describe you best:
⛷️ 🌍 📈