Ara Cohen

Ara Cohen is the Co-Founder and Co-Managing Member of Knighthead Capital Management, LLC, a New York-based firm specializing in event-driven, distressed credit, and special situation investment strategies. As co-portfolio manager, he leads Knighthead’s investment process, overseeing a platform with over $9–15 billion in assets across hedge funds, real estate lending, and insurance vehicles. Cohen’s specific focus areas include global credit markets, debt and equity securities, operational restructurings, turnaround opportunities, and tailored capital solutions in sectors such as real estate, insurance, and travel.

Cohen began his career in 1993 at Brown Brothers Harriman & Company, where he worked as an analyst for private equity partnerships. He later held principal roles at Tamarix Capital Corporation, King Street Capital Management, and Redwood Capital Management, where he helped build the firm into a multi-billion-dollar platform prior to co-founding Knighthead in 2008.

He graduated magna cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts from Bowdoin College. Beyond Knighthead, Cohen serves on the board of the Professional Fighters League and Palm Beach Synagogue. His extensive experience and proven track record in distressed investing, credit, and complex special situations have established him as a recognized leader in the investment management industry.