AM From Valuations w CFA?

I was wondering how applicable valuation skills are in AM - and how likely it would be to move to AM after an MBA. I am looking to break into AM long term (dream has always been to become a PM). Will be working at a top valuation shop valuing level 3 portfolio companies (mostly for PE, some for HF). I understand that most of my work is more geared towards PE, but I think the work and skills are highly transferable - hoping others will see it that way. 

Currently making strong progress on the CFA front - sitting for next exam soon, mid-tier quant work (R/Stata/Python/Palantir [Gotham so it won't be helpful in the private sector]), finance & math major (3.95 GPA), strong LoRs, GMAT 730, 

In summary, is this likely? Level 3 Valuations -> MBA (M7) -> AM 

What skills can I work on now to improve my candidacy?

8 Comments
 

Don't have a ton of years under my belt yet but I would think you would do well with recruiting. Valuations skills are 110% transferrable and valuable, CFA is a very good move, and it sounds like you have really good credentials. As always, where you do your MBA will dictate a lot of your recruiting opportunities, with Wharton/Stanford GSB/HBS obviously being the de facto gold standard. Columbia Value Investing program places very well too. My .02 is to study up on investing theory, practices, and principles to "fill in the gaps" on your resume. I'm guessing you probably know this and have, but being able to discuss and articulate those topics is a very important part of getting into AM. Good luck!

 

Thank you, this is exactly what I was thinking. Using the MBA as a springboard will be super important. I really wish SOM was better for AM (I know they have relationships with AQR and Bridgewater as well as a masters in AM, but its def not a powerhouse in AM like Wharton/CBS/Booth). I have heard wonders about the Value program at CBS. Met with a CFA in AM from the program and he was a top tier asset allocator for sure.  

 

Assuming you are currently at SOM then? While it may not be the recruiting pipelines that HSW are, it's still a name brand school and you should do just fine if you network and have a good resume, which i bet you do. Do you have any specific firms in mind? If you do, obviously focus your networking on them. If not, cast a wide net and play the field. you got this!

 

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