How to choose a L/S equity firm to work for? Can't decide on new/old, big/small, sector/generalist, etc.

I am recruiting for L/S, commercial/market thesis driven firms. There are a number of firms I've talked to where I like the people but there are a number of factors that I have to think about. Unlike PE, it is difficult to evaluate what type of HF to work for.

  • New / old
  • Level of flexibility (I like tech, but I guess generalist would be ok) 
  • Big / small (how much does joining a $300m first time fund vs. $1.5bn medium fund vs. $10bn older fund affect day to day life?)

Etc. I am wondering - do I just chase name brand firms again? Or how should I be thinking about this?

Thank you!

4 Comments
 

Probably wouldn't join a new launch unless you have a lot of confidence/experience studying public markets and are confident you can generate P&L.

Flexibility is good early on in your career. At a generalist fund, you usually end up running point on certain industries anyway.  Question is understanding who covers what at the fund, people can be territorial for the good sectors. More sectors are generally available for funds that are newer as you'd expect, unless there is turnover at the fund.

Don't chase brand name firms, it matters much less than you think in the long run. Only a couple things matter imo...good comp and a platform for learning/generating P&L.

 

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