Need a 9-5/6/7 after Private Credit, what to do?

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some potential paths for someone with your background looking for a more balanced lifestyle:

1. Corporate Development (Corp Dev):

   • This is a common exit for finance professionals. It involves working within a company to manage M&A, partnerships, and strategic initiatives.
   • The hours are generally more predictable, and the work-life balance is significantly better than Private Credit.
   • Pay might be lower than your current role, but it aligns well with your goal of a "normal, chill job."

2. Investor Relations (IR) or Product Specialist Roles:

   • Your investing experience can be a strong asset here. IR roles involve communicating with investors, managing relationships, and explaining fund performance.
   • Product Specialist roles are a mix of client-facing and internal responsibilities, often requiring a deep understanding of the investment products.
   • These roles typically offer better hours and less stress compared to Private Credit.

3. Asset Management or Family Office Roles:

   • Transitioning to a smaller asset manager or family office could provide a more relaxed environment.
   • These roles often have less intense deadlines and a more stable work-life balance.

4. Credit Rating Agencies:

   • If you're looking for a finance-adjacent role, credit rating agencies like Moody's or S&P could be a good fit.
   • The work is analytical but less deadline-driven, and the hours are generally more manageable.

5. Corporate Finance in an F500 Company:

   • Joining the finance team of a large corporation can provide stability and predictable hours.
   • Over time, you could grow into senior analyst or junior manager roles, with compensation reaching around $120K+ after 5-6 years.

6. Other Industry Roles (e.g., Product Management or Marketing):

   • If you're open to exploring non-finance roles, product management or marketing in industries like tech or consumer goods could be an option.
   • These roles often value analytical skills and strategic thinking, which you’ve developed in your career.

7. Venture Debt or Lending:

   • If you want to stay closer to your current expertise but with better hours, venture debt or lending roles could be a good fit.
   • These roles involve working with VC-backed firms and often have a more relaxed pace compared to traditional Private Credit.

8. Teaching or Mentorship Roles:

   • If you’re passionate about sharing your knowledge, consider teaching finance courses, mentoring, or even joining a training program for young professionals.

Given your savings and lack of lifestyle inflation, you have the flexibility to prioritize lifestyle over compensation. It might be worth exploring roles that align with your interests and allow you to spend more time with your partner.

Sources: Life after 2 years in Private Equity, , Handling Stress / Burnout in Private Equity, What’s the deal with Investor Relations?, Work to live, not live to work. Low-stress finance jobs...