McKinsey vs. Bain for PE Exit

The options are between McKinsey and Bain, both in a major office. McKinsey would be with their digital group, which allows me to have a bit of preference on tech cases but I can definitely work on anything outside of tech, such as PE diligence. Leaning towards McKinsey since Bain forces you to be a generalist, doesn't let me do as much tech work (if I do PE, I'd prefer to do it in TMT), and if I decide against PE, McKinsey exits are better. On the other hand, Bain has a better alumni network in PE and more placements there since most people interested in PE pick Bain. Any thoughts on whether there's a wrong choice here?

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I am aware that Bain is by far the strongest MBB firm in consulting for PE, so I'd go 100% with Bain. I know a couple of ex-Bain who landed good jobs at Blackstone and Carlyle.

But if PE is your long-term career goal, you will have more chances by working first in IB rather than in consulting. The skill-set learned in banking is more similar to the one needed in PE (LBO modelling, financial analysis, DCF...), and PE firms hire most of their employees from BB and EB instead of MBB or other consulting firms.

 

^ this. I noticed you deleted your last post that asked the same question, and everything has basically said the same thing man.

Bain if you had to choose. IB is better than both at an any reputable BB or EB

 

There are plenty of threads addressing (and answering) such questions in the consulting sub-forum. Search around and you will likely find answers faster than by waiting for people to chime in.

 

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