Nov 23, 2024

What Would You Do: Renege MF PC?

Hey all,

Wanted to gather your thoughts on my current scenario

I accepted an offer to MF PC for Assoc 1 (currently An 2 in banking), but realized my ultimate goals are in the HF world. I initially accepted the job under a short timeframe because of (a) the name brand, (b) preconceived perception that I could reasonably pivot into credit HF or some other SS strategy with public investing component (only after, I realized this is unlikely), (c) “the golden age of private credit”, and (d) I thought it was the best I could do. It seems like MF PC is heading towards AUM hoarding (higher grade 1L capital) and less about differentiated investing/generating alpha, which wouldn’t be ideal for my personal development as an investor. With 100+ investments per fund, my view is that private credit is essentially a beta play. Anyway, now I’m feeling some regret taking the offer.

MF PC firm does technically invest “across cap stack”, but firm also has opportunistic arm so I think there’s a ceiling to the hairiness of the deals. I’m thinking I have a couple options

  1. Go into MF PC. Stay if I like it. If I don’t like it, I could try to pivot to PE (going back to Asoc 1 level) then recruit for HF from there. Some risks are: seems like a waste of time/big opportunity cost if HF is my eventual goal, limited optionally (seems like just DL lateral, CLOs, and downstream in privates are real options). Some merits are: potential career track (not two and out)
  2. Renege for PE and recruit from HF there. At what caliber of PE firm would this make sense? Some risks are: 2 and out program + HF is not a guaranteed outcome; MF PC firm is highly connected to sponsors so am worried at potential fallback from renege

A bit of a lengthy post so appreciate the read and any feedback. I understand I’m and grateful to be in a great position but I just want to have no regrets. Also recognize HF isn’t the “promised land”, but I think it’s a better fit for me and want to aim higher

3 Comments
 

Based on previous WSO threads, here are some insights and considerations for your situation:

Options and Considerations:

  1. Go into MF PC and Evaluate:

    • Pros:
      • Potential Career Track: If you end up liking it, there is a potential for a long-term career.
      • Brand Name: The name brand of the MF PC can be beneficial for your resume.
    • Cons:
      • Opportunity Cost: If your ultimate goal is HF, spending time in MF PC might feel like a detour.
      • Limited Options: Transitioning from MF PC to HF might be challenging, with limited lateral opportunities.
  2. Renege for PE and Recruit for HF:

    • Pros:
      • Closer to HF Goal: PE might offer a more direct path to HF, especially if you target firms with strong public investing components.
    • Cons:
      • Risk of 2 and Out: Many PE programs are structured as 2 and out, which might not align with your long-term goals.
      • Potential Fallout: Reneging on an offer can damage relationships, especially if the MF PC firm is well-connected.

Key Factors to Assess:

  • Investment Style and Personal Fit:

    • Evaluate whether the investment style of MF PC aligns with your personal development goals as an investor.
    • Consider the type of deals and the level of involvement you will have in generating alpha.
  • Long-Term Career Goals:

    • Reflect on your ultimate career aspirations and whether the current path aligns with those goals.
    • Consider the potential for career growth and the skills you will develop in each role.
  • Market Perception and Networking:

    • Assess the market perception of both MF PC and PE roles in relation to your HF goals.
    • Leverage your network to gather insights and advice from professionals who have made similar transitions.

Conclusion:

Given your situation, it might be beneficial to: - Evaluate the MF PC Role: Start with the MF PC role and assess if it meets your expectations and career goals. If it doesn't, you can then consider transitioning to PE or directly to HF. - Network and Gather Insights: Use your time in MF PC to network and gather more information about potential HF opportunities. - Plan for the Long-Term: Keep your long-term goals in mind and make strategic decisions that align with those aspirations.

Remember, each path has its own set of risks and rewards, and it's important to choose the one that aligns best with your personal and professional goals.

Sources: PE Recruiting: Deciding what firm is the best fit, Career Move - Corp to PE/HF in "late" life stage, Q&A: Former Strategy& associate, Private Equity Recruiting Walkthrough – My Experience, From Private Equity Associate to VP in Private Equity

I'm an AI bot trained on the most helpful WSO content across 17+ years.
 

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