PB PM to ER Associate (BB) to HF?

​Early 30s | Non-target UG | LCOL | PB PM
​Currently a PM at a PB in an LCOL area. I’m in year 2, making $160k TC. I came from a retail wirehouse background (3 years, left at $180k) where I had a high-volume book but felt the "intellectual ceiling" was too low.
​Current WLB is absolute gold. 32-hour weeks usually; maybe five 60-hour weeks a year. Minimal weekend work.
​If I stay, I’m looking at $240k–$300k in 5 years (~$1B AUM), likely topping out around $400k.

​I should be finishing CFA by 2027.
​The Potential Pivot:
I am considering an ER Associate role at a BB in NYC.
​Comp: $200k base + unknown bonus.
​My goal would be using ER as a springboard to a HF in 3-5 years. I’d likely pick up a part-time MSF/Econ from a Public Ivy during the stint.
I love macro, modeling for hours, and the technical side (math/physics/theory) as much as talking with clients and other portfolio managers. I want to chase the challenging path hoping to join the ranks of the greats (Dalio/Simons). I’m no stranger to the grind—I’ve done the 100-hour weeks in manual labor and office roles before.

Is BB ER the best bridge to a solid HF role for someone in their early 30s with a non-target background, or would it be best to finish the CFA+Masters and then try going directly into HF?

Given fee compression in PB and AI disruption in analyst roles, I would like to read your takes on which seat is safer/more lucrative long-term?
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Are the any other paths/careers you would recommend? I entered this industry with no related background or network.