From US to EU

To make a successful transition from NYC to Europe in the next 3-6 years, here’s a roadmap based on the most helpful WSO content and insights:

1. Build a Strong Foundation in the U.S.

• Stay in M&A for 1-2 More Years: Moving too early without a solid deal sheet could hurt your credibility. Focus on closing deals, even if they’re smaller, as European recruiters value deal experience over just working on large deals that didn’t close.
• Consider a Lateral Move to a BB or Top MM Bank: A brand name like GS, MS, JPM, or even a strong MM player with European recognition (e.g., Rothschild, Lazard, or Evercore) will significantly boost your profile in Europe. These firms have stronger networks and reputations in the EU market.

2. Target Private Equity or a New Vertical

• Private Equity (PE): Moving to a PE role in the U.S. (even at a LMM or MM fund) can position you well for European PE opportunities. European PE firms often value U.S. PE experience highly, especially if you’ve worked on cross-border deals or in sectors relevant to the EU market.
• New Vertical: If you want to pivot industries, consider sectors that are strong in Europe, such as infrastructure, renewables, or consumer goods. This will make your profile more relevant when you eventually move.

3. Position Yourself for Europe

• Language Skills: Fluency in French, Spanish, or Italian (depending on your target country) is critical. Many European PE firms and banks require fluency in the local language, especially for client-facing roles.
• Networking in Europe: Start building relationships with European headhunters and professionals now. Attend conferences, leverage LinkedIn, and connect with alumni from your school or firm who are based in Europe.
• London as a Gateway: London is the financial hub of Europe and the best place to start. Many professionals use London as a stepping stone before moving to their home countries (e.g., France, Spain, or Italy).

4. Address Your Concerns

• Brand Name Recognition: A lateral move to a BB or a well-known MM bank will solve this issue. Alternatively, joining a U.S. PE fund with a European presence (e.g., KKR, Carlyle, or Blackstone) can also help.
• Deal Experience: Focus on closing deals in the next 1-2 years. Even smaller deals ($100mm+) are fine as long as you can articulate your role and impact during interviews.
• Vertical Change: If you want to switch industries, try to do so before moving to Europe. European firms may pigeonhole you into your current vertical if you don’t have experience in other sectors.

5. Long-Term Goals: Independence and Entrepreneurship

• Small PE Fund or Laid-Back MD Role: To achieve this, you’ll need to build a strong network and reputation in your target market. Consider joining a smaller, entrepreneurial PE fund in Europe after gaining experience at a larger firm. This will give you exposure to the operational side of running a fund.
• Niche Expertise: Identify a niche industry or market where you can specialize. This could be a specific sector (e.g., renewables, healthcare) or a geographic focus (e.g., Southern Europe).

6. Timeline and Action Plan

• Year 1-2: Close deals, build your resume, and consider a lateral move to a BB or top MM bank.
• Year 3-4: Transition to PE or a new vertical in the U.S. while networking with European professionals.
• Year 5-6: Move to London or your target European country, leveraging your U.S. experience and network.

Final Tips:

• European Recruiting Nuances: European PE recruiting is less structured than in the U.S. and often favors experienced candidates (3rd-year analysts or associates). Be prepared for a rolling process and focus on building relationships with headhunters.
• International Experience: Highlight any cross-border deal experience or international exposure on your resume. This will make you stand out in the European market.

By following this plan, you’ll position yourself as a strong candidate for European opportunities while building the skills and network needed for your long-term entrepreneurial goals.

Sources: 6 Things to Consider Before Accepting an International Work Assignment, Working for European PE as an American, Working Abroad - Regrets/Benefits, Breakdown of Post-IB Exit Opportunities