Meenal Mehta

What’s your favorite part of your role?

What I enjoy most about my role is the ability to shape investment outcomes while building and leading a high-performing team. Underwriting is at the heart of what we do, and I find it incredibly rewarding to dive deep into complex credit opportunities and help steer strategic decisions. But just as important is the people side, specifically mentoring talent, fostering collaboration, and watching the team grow both professionally and personally. It’s that combination of analytical rigor and leadership that makes the role so energizing.

I also enjoy the storytelling aspect: communicating our investment thesis to investors and framing it within the context of our broader strategy. It’s a chance to connect the dots, build conviction, and reinforce the value we’re creating.

What’s a challenge in your role that most people don’t see?

One challenge that often goes unseen in my role is the sheer volume of micro-decisions that underpin every deal and team interaction. While people typically see the final investment decision or the broader strategy, what they don’t see are the countless smaller choices like evaluating nuanced risk factors, aligning stakeholders, refining deal structures, coaching team members, and managing timelines. These decisions are critical and time-consuming, and they require constant judgment, adaptability, and attention to detail. You’re constantly switching gears, thinking strategically while staying sharp on the operational side.

How do you build trust with your team?

For me, building trust starts with being consistent and transparent. I make sure the team knows I’ve got their back whether it’s giving honest feedback, being clear about expectations, or just showing up and listening. My goal is to create an environment where people feel supported and empowered. I also try to lead by example: staying calm under pressure, owning mistakes, and making thoughtful decisions.

With junior team members especially, I focus on being approachable and creating space for learning whether that’s through deal reviews, informal check-ins, or just encouraging questions.

Over time, it’s the small, intentional moments like celebrating wins, checking in, and being available that compound and build trust. It doesn’t happen overnight, but when people feel heard, valued, and supported, trust grows naturally.

What leadership trait do you value most, and why?

The trait I value most is authenticity. When leaders are genuine about what they know, what they’re still figuring out, and how they show up, it creates a culture of trust and openness. People feel more comfortable sharing ideas, asking questions, and taking ownership. That openness also encourages the team to speak up about issues or concerns, which leads to better decisions and stronger outcomes.

Being authentic means staying true to my values, being transparent with my team, and showing up consistently especially in tough moments. It sets the tone for how we work together and helps build a strong, connected team. Over time, that consistency becomes a foundation others can rely on and that’s when real leadership starts to resonate.

What’s one piece of advice you’d give a new joiner at Blue Owl?

If I had to give just one piece of advice to a new joiner at Blue Owl … well, I’d probably fail at that because there’s more than one that matters.

Be curious and take initiative early on. There’s so much to learn here, and the best way to grow is by asking questions, jumping into conversations, and getting involved beyond your immediate responsibilities. Don’t be afraid to speak up or share your perspective, even if you’re new. People here value thoughtful input, and that willingness to engage creates space for learning and collaboration. Also, build relationships across teams as it is a great way to understand the bigger picture and feel connected to the broader platform.

And here’s a bonus: explore how AI tools can support your work. Whether it’s streamlining research, preparing materials, or sharpening how you communicate ideas. It’s a great way to work smarter and stay ahead.