FAANG Corp Dev / Strategy Associate vs. PE

Hi All,

I’m a second year analyst from a top BB (non-tech group in NY). I’ve recently been extended a corp dev / Strategy offer from a FAANG company, and am seriously considering it. In the medium-to-long term, my goals are to enter VC / growth investing or run strategic finance for a tech company (possibly after a business school stint). I’m hoping that someone can provide guidance on how this sort of role will position me relative to directly entering VC / Growth / MM PE as an Associate. Specifically I’m wondering the following:

•For VC / Growth Equity - Will the relative brand name and position of the FAANG company outweigh a more traditional investing role? Keep in mind I’m not trying to compare to Sequoia or General Atlantic, but firms that are more middle of the road from a brand name perspective

•Similarly, how will this position me business school, assuming competitive GMAT / undergrad stats? Specifically H/S/W

Thank you!