Big 4 Deals to London IB/PE: Is LBS MBA the right "Accelerator"?

Target Program: LBS MBA (Class of 2028 Intake)

Background:
• Nationality/Location: Southeast Asia
• Education: Double Degree in Accountancy & Management
• Certifications: CPA, CMA.
• Work Experience (at matriculation): ~4 years in Big 4 Deals - Corporate Finance (PwC).
• Experience Snapshot: M&A, valuation, financial modeling, and transaction advisory.

The Context:
I originally looked at the MiF, but after an LBS CV review, the admissions team encouraged me to target the Full-time MBA. I’ll be 28 at matriculation - hitting the program average.

Goal: Pivot to London High Finance (IB or Mid-Market PE) or Strategy Consulting (MBB/Tier 2).

Questions for the Community:
1. The "Switcher" Myth: I see a lot of doom-posting about London being impossible for internationals right now. Does my Big 4 Deals experience move me out of the "career switcher" bucket and into the "experienced hire" bucket for mid senior-level recruitment?

2. PE Reality Check: I’m interested in PE but wary of the 80-100 hour grind long-term. How is the placement for LBS MBAs into Mid-Market PE or even Corporate Development in the UK?

3. Given my background, is the MBA seen as "stronger" for Strategy/Consulting pivots compared to the MiF in the eyes of London recruiters?

Appreciate any "no-sugarcoating" advice from LBS Alums or City professionals.

Thanks!