All,
I’d like some feedback on my approach to get into M&A after 6 yr’s of experience, with a kind of “non-consitent” resume:
- Real Estate CF (Big4) c. 1.5 yrs
- Big4 Business Modelling and Valuation experience c. 3 yrs
- Real Estate PE (large european fund) experience c. 1.5 yrs (front office, however very limited transaction experience due to weak markets)
The RE market is absolutely silent atm and I want to move back into traditional M&A either PE, IB or CF. Also, I do not find asset investing/CF as interesting as traditional M&A. The reason I’m in RE PE now was just because of a nice opportunity I couldn’t decline.
I’ve networked a LOT, got lots of interviews (most of them casual through network) but I constantly get the feedback that I do not have A-Z transaction experience and it’s easier for them to pick someone with 2 yrs of M&A experience.
My approach so far:
- Used my network to get interviews / coffee chats with people in CF, PE, family offices etc. (own country/city)
- Reached out to randoms at Linkedin (both junior and senior people in companies I’d like to work for as well as recruiters and HR people). Really hard to get through especially when contacting people in London (very keen to move to London or NYC). Most people don’t answer, some answer but never get’s back to me later in the process (after initial call or so). I’ve written to +100 people so far.
- Applied to positions via Linkedin and company websites (both “Easy Apply” or positions that require cover letter etc.)
So far I get the sense that the easiest way in is the find a boutique CF house in my own country, accept a lower position if possible (associate/senior associate) work my ass of for a couple of years and then try applying in London/NYC again.
However, would like to hear if you see any alternative approches? Such as applying for different roles.
Happy to further elaborate. Look forward to getting feedback!
Hey there, fellow monkey! Your journey so far sounds quite interesting and diverse. It's clear you've got a lot of experience under your belt, but I understand the challenge of not having that A-Z transaction experience that many firms look for.
Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are a few suggestions:
Headhunters: Have you tried reaching out to headhunters? They can be a great resource for finding opportunities that match your unique skill set and experience. They might also have connections with firms that value your diverse background.
Transfer Internally: If you're currently at a large European fund, is there a possibility to transfer internally to a team that does more traditional M&A work? This could be a good way to gain the transaction experience you're lacking.
Further Education: Have you considered further education, such as an MBA? This could be a good way to pivot into more traditional M&A roles. Many top business schools have strong alumni networks in finance and could provide the opportunity to intern with an M&A team.
Networking: You've done a lot of networking, which is great. Keep it up! Networking is often a numbers game, so don't be discouraged by the lack of responses. Keep reaching out, attending events, and making connections. You never know when an opportunity might arise.
Boutique Firms: As you mentioned, joining a boutique CF house could be a good stepping stone. It might not be your end goal, but it could provide the transaction experience you need to eventually move into a larger firm or a different city.
Remember, there's no one-size-fits-all approach to breaking into M&A. Keep exploring different avenues and stay open to opportunities, even if they're not exactly what you had in mind. Good luck!
Sources: https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/investment-banking/breaking-into-private-equity-from-banking?customgpt=1, Choose Between Two Offers (BB/MBB) - Looking for Advice, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/consulting/strategy-london-reputation-exit-opportunities?customgpt=1, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/private-equity/breaking-into-nyc-pe-from-apac?customgpt=1, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/consulting/strategy-ma-strategy-team-reviews-london?customgpt=1
Seems like the easiest way would be to do a top MBA.
I think you definitely have a great profile for it and it will be much easier to land a role in NYC/London with campus recruitment
If i were you I'd shoot for a t15 in the US given weaker London Associate recruitment and then look to move to BB/MM IB
Actually never thought about a MBA as I do have a MSc but definitely worth considering. Would you aim for an MBA with some specific courses? Thanks
Update
I am interviewing for a few positions and have proceeded to the last interview for the following two positions:
My reflections:
Happy to hear your thoughts.
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