Opportunities in South Florida

Ah, the sunny allure of South Florida! It's not just the weather and beaches that are attractive but also the burgeoning finance scene. Let's dive into the opportunities on both the buy side and sell side in the Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Boca Raton, and Palm Beach areas. You've already mentioned some big names like Sun Capital, HIG, iSquared, and Comvest, which are indeed significant players in the region. Here's a bit more detail and some additional names to consider:

Buy Side Opportunities:

• Sun Capital (Boca Raton): Known for its private equity investments, Sun Capital closed a $2.3B fund in 2019, with a 2013 vintage showing a 39% IRR.
• HIG Capital (Miami): With a diverse range of funds, including the HIG Strategic Partners at $1.3B in 2018 and the Middle Market Fund at $3.1B in 2019, HIG is a powerhouse in Miami. The 2014 Middle Market fund shows a 31% IRR.
• AE Industrial Partners (Boca Raton): Focused on aerospace, defense, and industrial markets, AE Industrial closed a $1.36B fund in 2018, with a $680M 2015 fund showing a 25% IRR.
• Comvest Partners: While specific details weren't provided, Comvest is another notable player in the area.

Sell Side Opportunities:

• Investment Banking: The scene is almost non-existent in Miami itself, with a few boutiques offering internships but rarely full-time offers. However, there are shops in Ft. Lauderdale, Boca, and West Palm that recruit for full-time roles on a need-based basis.

Additional Insights:

• Private Equity and Hedge Funds: There's a surprising number of shops in the area, largely due to the tax breaks and weather. While many investment positions are lateral hires from well-known banks, there are entry-level opportunities that could serve as a foot in the door.
• Networking and Recruitment: For those looking to break into the scene, leveraging headhunters, attending national career fairs, and keeping an eye on the WSO job board could be beneficial. The local culture and ties to South Florida can play a significant role in recruitment and retention, so building a local network can be advantageous.

Remember, the finance landscape in South Florida is unique, with a blend of lifestyle and professional opportunities. Whether you're aiming for the buy side or sell side, there's a growing community and a range of opportunities to explore. Keep networking, stay informed, and who knows? You might just find your next big break under the South Florida sun.

Sources: Private Equity in South Florida, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/school/university-of-miami-fl-mba-the-rundown?customgpt=1, Hedge Funds in Miami?, University of Miami (FL) MBA: The Rundown, Anyone have any good famous broker stories?