Starting to plan my IB exit. Would appreciate recommendations on exit opps, based on the following criteria:
- Consistent WLB (less than 70 hrs)
- Entrepreneurial, investor environment
- Little to no financial modeling
- More strategy, operations focused
- Normal paced, non-toxic environment
- High comp, potential for upward mobility (200k+)
- Location: Southern US
Went to a target, at a top shop, in a top group, so don’t believe any opportunities are restricted from me.
Based on the most helpful WSO content and considering your criteria for exit opportunities after investment banking, here are some recommendations that align with your preferences:
Venture Capital (VC): While VC roles can be competitive and demanding, they often offer a more entrepreneurial environment where financial modeling is not the primary focus. Instead, the role is more about evaluating startups, understanding markets, and strategic thinking. The work-life balance can be more favorable compared to IB, and there's significant potential for high compensation and upward mobility, especially if you get in at a good fund. Given your background, transitioning into VC could be a viable path.
Corporate Strategy: Roles in corporate strategy within large corporations, especially those headquartered in the Southern US, could be a great fit. These positions often focus on long-term strategic planning, operational improvements, and market analysis. The work-life balance is typically better than in IB, with most roles requiring less than 70 hours per week. Compensation can be attractive, particularly at senior levels, and there's room for growth into executive positions.
Growth Equity: Similar to VC but with investments in more mature companies, growth equity can offer an investor-type environment with a focus on scaling businesses. The role involves less financial modeling and more strategic and operational involvement. The pace can be intense but is generally more balanced than IB, and the culture can be less toxic. Compensation and opportunities for advancement are strong, especially if you join a well-regarded firm.
Startup Operations/Strategy: Joining a high-growth startup in a strategic or operational role can satisfy your entrepreneurial itch and allow you to shape the direction of an emerging business. While the risk is higher, so is the potential reward, including equity compensation that could exceed your target if the company succeeds. Work-life balance varies widely in startups, but with your background, you could position yourself in a leadership role that offers more control over your schedule.
Private Equity Portfolio Operations: Some private equity firms have teams dedicated to improving operations within their portfolio companies. These roles are more focused on strategy and operations than on deal-making and financial modeling. The work environment can be demanding but is often more predictable and less toxic than traditional PE roles. Compensation is competitive, with significant upside potential as you help increase the value of portfolio companies.
Given your strong background and preferences, these options could provide a fulfilling next step in your career. Remember, networking and leveraging your alumni connections can be crucial in transitioning to these roles, especially in more entrepreneurial paths like VC and startups.
Sources: Why the focus on exit opps?, Some Thoughts on Managing Multiple Offers (Consulting / MBB), , Career Paths/Exit Opportunities, 4 Real-Life Consulting Exit Opps of My Former Colleagues
In the South, maybe real estate development or corporate development if you choose Atlanta or Charlotte. They meet alot of your requirements and have upward mobility in the area. Also RE PE at smaller shops should have less than 70 hours most of the time.
Any industries you like? A Strategy / Strategic Finance role at a post Series B startups could be interesting. Venture is another path but is very network driven.
Farmer
What level banker are you?
Ops team at a PE firm could fit the bill. Our ops team members often step in as temporary/full-time c-suite at portcos. All of them did some time on the investing side tho.
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