The Alternative Credit Council (ACC), the global representative body for private credit fund managers and an affiliate of the Alternative Investment Management Association (AIMA), has named John Golden of Apollo and Cécile Mayer Lévi of Tikehau Capital as its new Co-Chairs. The appointments mark a significant transition in the ACC’s leadership as the organization continues expanding its global presence.
Golden and Mayer Lévi take over from Deborah Zurkow, former Global Head of Investments at Allianz Global Investors, who has served as Chair since January 2023. Their leadership arrives at a time when private credit continues to scale worldwide, supported by increasing institutional demand and broader adoption across corporate lending, asset-based lending, infrastructure, and real estate debt strategies.
Since launching in 2016, the ACC has become a prominent global voice for private credit managers. The group now represents 250 member firms responsible for more than $2 trillion in private credit assets. The ACC’s core work focuses on regulatory and investor advocacy, market research, and the development of best-practice frameworks that support the sector’s continued evolution.
Golden and Mayer Lévi will guide the ACC through its next chapter as private credit expands into new markets and takes on a larger role in global financing. Their experience in regulatory affairs, debt markets, and cross-border credit investing is expected to help the association address key policy issues shaping the sector’s growth.
KEY QUOTES
“Private credit plays a critical role financing many strategic priorities around the world, generating much-needed yield for retirees and other investors, as well as supporting more resilient financial markets. It’s a privilege to Co-Chair the ACC, a group that’s committed to rigorous research and fact-based policies. I look forward to working with Cecile, the ACC team and the broader membership on these important policy issues.”
John Golden, Global Head of Financial Regulation and Partner, Apollo
“I am delighted to take on the role of Co-Chair alongside John Golden. The ACC has played a pivotal role in representing and advancing the interests of private credit globally. As private credit continues to evolve and expand, our industry’s ability to deliver tailored financing solutions and robust risk management creates real value for businesses and investors alike. I look forward to working with our members and stakeholders to further strengthen the role of private credit in driving growth and innovation across markets and promoting best practices.”
Cécile Mayer Lévi, Head of Private Debt, Tikehau Capital
“Since its inception, the ACC has played a critical role in strengthening knowledge and understanding of the private credit industry across a wide range of stakeholders. I’m delighted to see two such experienced and knowledgeable leaders, Cécile and John, step into the role of Co-Chairs. Their guidance will be invaluable as the ACC continues to provide a strong global voice for the industry and make important contributions to the development of private credit markets worldwide.”
Deborah Zurkow, Outgoing Chair of the ACC
“Under Deborah’s leadership the ACC expanded our membership and activities in line with the growth of our members’ businesses. I’m grateful for her commitment and guidance during this period. It’s fantastic for the ACC to now have two Co-Chairs in John and Cécile who will bring the same energy and drive to the next chapter of the association’s development.”
Jiří Król, Global Head of the Alternative Credit Council
