Scott Nuttall calls them KKR-isms. Inside what is probably the most iconic private equity firm in the world – the original barbarians at the gate – these are the little sayings that help define a culture. It’s one that Nuttall, a 29-year veteran of the company and the co-chief executive of the global firm since October 2021, says is one of its great advantages.

Some of the KKR-isms are a little folksy – it’s not hard to picture phrases such as “connect the dots” and “use the whole brain” written on motivational posters. And we’re pretty sure another saying – “treat people the way you want to be treated” – has been pinched from the Bible.