Burned out HF guy, what are my exit options
I worked at equity long/short hedge funds for 7-8 years. I wasn't quite able to bridge the gap between analyst and PM, but burned myself out trying, and topped out at senior analyst. I got tired of the constant urgency, dreaming about my positions, waking up in a cold sweat, the backstabbing, getting screwed on netting, everything really. I left of my own accord about a year ago and have been floating around ever since. I have some solid savings so can last for a while but not forever obviously. I have been thinking a lot about what kind of jobs I would be qualified to do with my background. I'm not interested in anything in the hedge fund industry. I've tried applying to some long-only and startup jobs but haven't even gotten an interview.
I'm curious if any of you have made transitions out of the industry, or what you have seen others do. My expectations for compensation are not super high, 150k would be acceptable if the lifestyle is decent. Open to considering all kinds of things.
Family office or fund of funds.
curious about what you think made you not make PM? What were the lessons in retrospect that you did well and what mistakes did you make that prevented a shot at PM being realized?
I'm on the same career path as you. Thinking of leaving in a few years here, even if I do make PM.
I think the best, most cushy job would be investor relations. You basically will know exactly what investors want to know and you're the mouthpiece of management. There are some IR guys out there I'd rather talk to than the actual management.
At a large-cap company, you could make multiples of $150k. Unless you're completely looking to get out of the market-related territory. I've seen quite a few sell-side analysts do it, as well as a few buy-side people. You're well-qualified coming from either role.