Infra Investing - Am I trying To Do the Unthinkable?

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here's what you need to know about transitioning into infrastructure investment roles with your background:

Key Points:

1. Background and Experience:

   • Current Role: Working at a renewables IPP with a focus on modeling, business case development, acquisitions, valuation, investment memos, and risk identification.
   • Previous Experience:
     • 3.5 years in IB (non P&U industry group - FIG/TMT) at a mid-tier BB.
     • ~1 year in PE at a LMM PE shop.
     • 1 year at a Series C funded tech startup in a leadership role.
   • Education: M7 MBA graduate.

2. Challenges and Insights:

   • Non-Traditional Background: Your background is somewhat non-traditional for infra investment roles, especially given the mix of IB, PE, and startup experience.
   • Current Role Relevance: Your current role in renewables IPP is highly relevant due to the modeling, valuation, and investment memo experience, which are critical skills in infra investing.
   • Market Perception: Despite your relevant experience, the lack of traction from firms might be due to the non-traditional path and the specific industry focus of your previous roles.

3. Advice and Strategies:

   • Conviction in Your Story: Emphasize your unique blend of skills and experiences. Highlight how your diverse background provides a comprehensive understanding of different aspects of the business, from strategy to operations to finance.
   • Targeted Networking: Focus on MM/UMM shops that value diverse backgrounds and are refining their strategies into specific segments of the infrastructure space. These firms might be more open to candidates with non-traditional backgrounds.
   • Leverage Your MBA Network: Utilize your M7 MBA network to get introductions and referrals. Alumni connections can be particularly valuable in opening doors.
   • Demonstrate Industry Knowledge: Show a deep understanding of the infrastructure sector, particularly in renewables. Be prepared to discuss industry trends, regulatory impacts, and specific subsectors you are passionate about.

4. Potential Firms:

   • MM/UMM Shops: Look for firms that are not household names but have a strong presence in the infrastructure space. These firms might be more flexible in their hiring criteria.
   • Generalist Programs: Consider firms with generalist programs that allow for flexibility and intellectual curiosity across different subsectors of infrastructure.

By focusing on these strategies and leveraging your unique background, you can position yourself favorably for senior associate or junior VP roles in the infrastructure investment space.

Sources: Q&A: Broke into MM M&A from a non-traditional background and 2 years of networking and internships, Interviewing For Infrastructure Investment Roles, Ask me anything - Non Traditional Background to MM PE to H/S/W, Ask me anything - Non Traditional Background to MM PE to H/S/W, Interviewing For Infrastructure Investment Roles