Davis Polk Investment Management partner Sijia Cai was profiled in IFLR’s “Five minutes with” series, discussing the need to have a deep understanding of what’s top of mind for clients day-to-day and strategically.

Sijia said that, at the moment, she is working on “a mix of active fundraises and secondaries transactions primarily in the PE and private credit industries. … There is a lot of innovation happening in these spaces and I am grateful to be working on a number of transactions that have no precedent in the market, which makes them very exciting.”

When asked about the key characteristics that make a successful funds lawyer, she noted, “The ability to take a holistic approach for each client – not only being a ‘funds’ lawyer but having a deep understanding of what our clients do, what their business is, and what’s top of mind for them day-to-day and strategically – is critical in my mind. It’s also important to think commercially and build good relationships with counterparties so that I can help clients achieve better outcomes.”

Reflecting on what advice she would give to her younger self, Sijia said, “Don’t stress. Take your time and enjoy the journey. And always keep an open mind and get out of your comfort zone.”

Davis Polk partner on taking a holistic approach with clients,” IFLR (August 18, 2025) (subscription required)