Am I chasing something not right for me?

Based on the most helpful WSO content, your situation reflects a common crossroads for entrepreneurial individuals with a finance background but without traditional IB or modeling experience. Here are some tailored insights and suggestions:

1. Chasing PE for the Playbook and Exit Opportunities

• BD Side in PE: While business development (BD) roles in PE can provide exposure to deal sourcing and partnerships, they may not offer the deep operational or financial modeling skills you're seeking. If your goal is to learn the "playbook" for buying and growing businesses, you might find the learning curve limited on the BD side, as it often overlaps with your existing skill set.
• Exit Opportunities: Transitioning from a BD role in PE to other areas like VC or entrepreneurship is possible, but it may not significantly enhance your technical or operational expertise. If you're looking to build skills for future business leadership, consider roles that challenge you in areas where you're less experienced.

2. Balancing Entrepreneurship and Corporate Roles

• Entrepreneurial Path: If your current business has strong potential, it might be worth focusing on scaling it. Many successful entrepreneurs leverage their ventures to build networks, capital, and credibility, which can later open doors to VC or other strategic roles.
• Corporate Re-entry: Your concern about re-entering the corporate world is valid, but it's not insurmountable. If you decide to pursue a corporate role, prioritize positions that align with your long-term goals, such as strategy, operations, or roles that expose you to financial modeling and deal execution.

3. MBA and Brand Name Exposure

• Top MBA: Pursuing a top MBA can be a game-changer for building your network, gaining brand name exposure, and pivoting into roles like MBB consulting, unicorn startups, or VC. It can also help you address gaps in your technical skills through coursework and internships.
• Timing: If an MBA is a priority, consider whether your current entrepreneurial venture or a short stint in a strategic role could strengthen your application. Admissions committees value unique, impactful experiences.

4. Alternative Paths to Skill Building

• Corporate Development: A corporate development role at a fast-growing startup or established company could provide exposure to M&A, strategy, and financial modeling, aligning with your goals of learning and network building.
• VC or Growth Equity: If VC is a long-term aspiration, consider roles that bridge your entrepreneurial and financial experience, such as growth equity or operational roles at portfolio companies.
• Self-Learning: If modeling is a gap, you can address it through resources like WSO's financial modeling courses, which are designed for professionals transitioning into finance-heavy roles.

5. Strategic Decision-Making

• Focus on Long-Term Goals: Since finance is not your end goal, prioritize roles and experiences that align with your vision of becoming a business leader. This might mean stepping away from traditional finance paths and doubling down on entrepreneurial or operational opportunities.
• Leverage Your Strengths: Your entrepreneurial mindset, sourcing, and partnership skills are valuable in VC, startups, and strategy roles. Use these strengths to differentiate yourself while addressing technical gaps.

Final Thoughts:

Your instincts about not staying in PE long-term and focusing on broader leadership skills are spot on. If you decide to pursue a corporate role, ensure it offers new learning opportunities and aligns with your long-term vision. Alternatively, scaling your current business or pursuing an MBA could be more impactful for achieving your goals.

Sources: Is BCG a viable path to Private Equity?, What is the point of doing private equity if you will be pushed out after two years to get an MBA?, HF to PE post-MBA - my story and seeking advice (long-time poster)!, Staying a third year as a PE associate vs. doing something nontraditional, Corporate Development Manager - Q&A