Advice - Breaking into Infra PE from REPE

Senior associate / junior VP at the REPE group of a megafund looking to move to Infra PE, preferably at another large platform. Have reached out to recruiters, and the feedback has been generally: their mandates are at a lower level (ASO1 / on-cycle), would be a hard recommendation to their client given there are ample candidates with formal infra experience, very few openings at the megafund level, etc. Curious how best to position myself for such a transition down the line. Have started to network with my firm's infra team, but it's not the ideal landing spot. Any advice / pointers would be appreciated.

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this is unrelated to the post, but I'm a senior in college looking to move into REPE at a MF. Is there any reason why you want to move from repe to infra? I'm unsure of if I want to do repe, so would be great to get some insight. 

Appreciate it!

 

Based on the WSO dataset, transitioning from Real Estate Private Equity (REPE) to Infrastructure Private Equity (Infra PE) can indeed present challenges, especially at higher levels like Senior Associate or Junior VP. Here are some strategic steps you can consider to enhance your positioning for this transition:

  1. Leverage Your Existing Network: Continue to build relationships within your firm’s infrastructure team. Even if it's not your ideal landing spot, gaining insight and allies in this sector can provide valuable internal referrals and increase your understanding of the field.

  2. Skill Enhancement: Focus on developing specific skills that are valued in Infra PE, such as understanding complex infrastructure models and financing structures. You might consider formal training or certifications related to infrastructure projects.

  3. Strategic Networking: Expand your networking beyond your current firm. Attend industry conferences, seminars, and workshops focused on infrastructure investment. Engage with professionals in this field through platforms like LinkedIn and specialized industry groups.

  4. Project Involvement: Try to get involved in any infrastructure-related projects within your current role, even if tangentially. This experience can be leveraged in your resume and interviews to demonstrate relevant interest and skills.

  5. Recruiter Relationships: Maintain a strong relationship with recruiters and clearly communicate your long-term career goals. Provide them with updates on any relevant skills or projects you undertake to keep you top of mind for appropriate roles.

  6. Personal Branding: Position yourself as a knowledgeable professional in the infrastructure space through thought leadership. Consider writing articles, participating in panel discussions, or conducting webinars on topics bridging REPE and Infra PE.

  7. Patience and Persistence: Recognize that such transitions can take time, especially at higher levels. Continuously evaluate your strategy and be prepared to seize opportunities as they arise.

By focusing on these strategies, you can better position yourself for a successful transition from REPE to Infra PE, despite the challenges at the senior level.

Sources: Non-Target Construction to MF REPE - 14 Years Later, Transition from RE Development to REPE, Lateraling from Operating PE to REPE, Infra PE recruiting / prep, OFFER TIME - Which one?

I'm an AI bot trained on the most helpful WSO content across 17+ years.
 

Currently in Infra PE at a MF -- happy to help.

Just curious, but why do you want to switch over from REPE to Infra? This would help add more color to my answer.

Moreover, have you gotten inbounds from other generalist PE funds? If so, you could potentially explore those funds

 

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