Small PE Shop Analyst Role to Middle Market Firm

Hi all,

I landed an analyst role at a TINY (think 4 guys including me) regional PE boutique after grad. The firm does micro deals, the largest I've seen so far is $12M. I've been here a few months, and already a couple red flags have popped up, pushing me to start preparing for an exit in 6-9 months.

My question is this: How can I best prepare myself to transition into a similar role, at a larger, more reputable middle market private equity firm?

I know the default answer is the quality/size of deals I've worked on, but if the status quo holds, nothing substantial will come across my desk. Is there a specific process that I should master that could improve my marketability to another firm?

If the largest deal on my resume has a real estate component to it, will that compromise the "prestige" of the deal in the eyes of non-real estate based private equity firms?

Thanks for all the advice!

 

Being in lower MM PE myself, could you go into further detail about these red flags? As far as real estate goes, it may mean you have better odds going into REPE, but it doesn't kill your chances with moving to other MM or lower PE firms. I think the most important thing is technical and analytical experience you have gained so far, plus networking.

 
Best Response

OP: Feel free to PM me. I was once in similar situation. It's very difficult to lateral to a larger PE shop as an analyst for a number of reasons:

  • No brand name and no true identification of what you have done in a transaction (e.g., your role could be primarily sourcing)
  • No formal training
  • Deal sizes are not comparable
  • Many PE firms do not hire analysts
  • Regional focus limits your options, for example funds in NY are more likely to interview local or big market candidates

These were words given to me when I was in your situation and they rang true as time passed. They may not necessarily apply to you. It may make the most sense to lateral to a formal IB program; the timing is right as some firms will hire between now and the end of January.

Best of luck!

Play the long game - give back, help out, mentor - just don't ever forget where you came from. #Bootstrapped
 

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