Job Searching Acvice

To navigate your return to traditional finance after a stint in startup operations/strategic finance, here’s a focused game plan based on the most helpful WSO content:

1. Leverage Your Startup Experience Strategically

• Highlight your experience in scaling and financial strategy at a VC-backed healthcare tech company. This is valuable for roles in VC, growth equity, or even PE, as firms often value operational insights and strategic finance experience.
• Emphasize any impactful projects, such as fundraising, financial modeling, or strategic initiatives, that demonstrate your ability to drive value.

2. Target Off-Cycle Opportunities

• Many firms, especially in VC and smaller PE shops, hire off-cycle. Focus on boutique firms, family offices, and growth equity funds, as they often have more flexible hiring timelines.
• Use your network to identify firms that may not post roles publicly. Cold outreach to smaller funds or firms with a strong healthcare/tech focus could yield results.

3. Networking is Key

• Continue working your network aggressively. Beyond LinkedIn and university job boards, consider:
  • Alumni networks: Reach out to alumni in IB/PE/VC/ER roles, especially those with a healthcare or tech focus.
  • Industry events: Attend conferences, panels, or meetups related to healthcare, tech, or finance.
  • Warm intros: Use your connections to get introductions to decision-makers at target firms.

4. Position Yourself for NYC

• Tailor your pitch to the NYC market. Highlight your ability to adapt to fast-paced environments and your understanding of the local finance ecosystem.
• If you’re targeting a September move, start reaching out now to build momentum and secure interviews.

5. Job Boards and Resources

• Beyond LinkedIn and university boards, explore niche platforms like:
  • WSO Job Board: A great resource for finance roles, including off-cycle opportunities.
  • Glocap: Focused on finance and investment roles.
  • PEHub: For private equity and VC roles.
  • eFinancialCareers: Covers a wide range of finance positions.

6. Tailor Your Resume and Story

• Craft a compelling narrative that bridges your startup experience with your desire to return to traditional finance. Focus on transferable skills like financial modeling, strategic thinking, and operational insights.
• Be prepared to address why you left traditional finance and why you’re returning now. Frame it as a strategic decision to broaden your skill set.

7. Consider Interim Steps

• If breaking directly into IB/PE/VC/ER proves challenging, consider roles in corporate development, strategic finance, or FP&A at larger firms. These can serve as stepping stones back into traditional finance.

8. Persistence and Follow-Up

• The current market is tough, so persistence is crucial. Follow up on every lead, and don’t hesitate to send polite reminders to your network or potential employers.

By combining these strategies, you can maximize your chances of landing a role in traditional finance. Keep pushing, and good luck!

Sources: Q&A: Returning to PE After a Year and a Half at a Series C Startup, Off Cycle Recruiting Stories, Transitioning from tech to a serious finance job (yes, you read that right), Q&A: From Corporate Finance to Corporate Strategy (Supply), Banking -> Startup PM on who SHOULD join IB