Feeling Lost and Looking for Advice (more senior)

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here’s a breakdown of actionable advice for your situation:

1. Corporate Development Roles in Tech

• Given your strong sector expertise in IT/AI infrastructure and experience leading M&A strategy, corporate development at a large-cap tech company could be a natural fit. Many professionals with your background transition into these roles, leveraging their deal experience and strategic insights.
• Your existing network of former clients in corporate development and strategy is a significant asset. Reaching out to them for informational interviews or potential openings could yield opportunities.

2. Private Equity or Venture Capital

• Your experience advising on M&A and capital allocation aligns well with roles in private equity or venture capital, particularly firms focused on tech or infrastructure. Highlighting your ability to evaluate deals and lead projects independently will resonate with these firms.
• If you’re concerned about the long hours in PE, consider targeting growth equity or VC firms, which may offer a better work-life balance.

3. Strategy Roles at Startups or Growth Companies

• Joining a fast-growing startup in a strategic finance or corporate strategy role could be a rewarding pivot. Your expertise in valuation, capital allocation, and M&A strategy would be highly valuable to startups navigating growth or preparing for funding rounds.
• Startups backed by VCs or private equity often appreciate candidates with your background, especially if they’re scaling operations or considering exits.

4. Consulting

• Transitioning to a consulting role, particularly at a firm with a strong tech focus, could be another option. Your experience advising large-cap tech clients on corporate finance topics positions you well for roles in strategy consulting or boutique firms specializing in tech.

5. Take Time to Reflect and Recharge

• Since you’ve saved enough to not worry about short-term finances, use this time to focus on your health and reassess your long-term career goals. Consider working with an executive coach or mentor to clarify your next steps.

6. Leverage WSO Resources

• Utilize WSO’s Resume Reviews by Professionals and Mock Interviews with Pros to refine your materials and prepare for interviews.
• Explore the WSO Company Database to identify firms hiring for roles that align with your expertise.

7. Networking and Outreach

• Reconnect with your network, including former clients, colleagues, and mentors. A well-crafted LinkedIn message or email explaining your situation and interest in exploring new opportunities can open doors.
• Attend industry events or webinars to expand your network and stay updated on trends in tech and finance.

8. Consider a Sabbatical or Further Education

• If you’re still uncertain, a short sabbatical or pursuing an advanced degree (e.g., MBA) could provide clarity and open new doors. However, given your VP-level experience, this may not be necessary unless you’re looking to pivot significantly.

Your background and expertise are highly marketable, especially in tech-focused finance roles. Prioritize your health and take the time to explore opportunities that align with your skills and long-term goals.

Sources: CorpDev to PE prospects - creating a long-term map / success stories, Lesser known MBA career options? Looking for advice on what to do post-HBS., Corporate Finance Q&A with accountingbyday, BJM85, STorIB, and djfiii, PE Senior Associate - What next?