Fortress Investment Group Co-CEO Josh Pack Passes Away
Josh Pack, co-CEO of Fortress Investment Group, has died at the age of 51, according to a statement released by the company on Tuesday. The New York-based alternative asset management firm, which manages $53 billion, confirmed his passing but did not disclose the cause.
“We are devastated by this loss,” Fortress stated, emphasizing the profound impact Pack had within the organization.
He was remembered as a skilled investor, strategic thinker, and a cherished friend. The company noted, “Everyone here is saddened by the loss of one of our most exceptional leaders.” Importantly, they highlighted his role as a dedicated husband and father, expressing condolences to his family and requesting privacy during this difficult time.
No details regarding funeral arrangements have been shared publicly.
Pack’s unexpected death comes just months after he revealed plans to move from Dallas to London to lead Fortress’ European expansion efforts. In May, he discussed this transition, which included hiring senior executives and broadening their reach in private credit management, targeting institutional investors in Europe and the Middle East.
Fortress, founded in 1998, has established a reputation for investing in corporate credit, real estate, and private equity. Under Pack’s leadership, the firm has accelerated growth, even faster than initially anticipated, as he noted in earlier discussions this year.
This expansion strategy was largely a response to uncertainties in the U.S. market, affected by shifts in trade policy and investor sentiment. Pack had indicated that while Fortress had significant U.S. investors, they were eager to attract European clients, who accounted for less than 10% of managed assets.
Following Pack’s passing, Drew McKnight will continue as co-CEO, working alongside Jack Neumark, who has been promoted to share leadership responsibilities. Executive Chairman Pete Briger will also increase his involvement in daily operations.
Pack had a long-standing history with Fortress, having joined from Wells Fargo 23 years ago. He played a crucial role in the company’s evolution, from going public in 2007 to being taken private by SoftBank Group Corp a decade later, and subsequently to the stock sales to Abu Dhabi’s Mubadala Investment Company last year.
His academic background included attending the U.S. Air Force Academy and graduating from California State University, San Marcos, with a degree in economics.
