Best Non-Finance jobs to go into post PE

I am currently 2 years into my growth equity gig after 2 years of banking and feeling pretty burnt out. I do genuinely like investing, but don't like the extensive modeling, presentation prep and politics of the job. What I do like is developing a thesis on a space and meeting/talking to founders. With this being said, I feel like I naturally gravitate towards VC

However, I am very jaded from finance for now and would like a break before even considering going back. I am not interested in spending $150K+ on bschool. What are some jobs to go into that keeps the door open to go into VC? Some that I have seen are chief of staff, growth, GTM, and obviously corp dev. 

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Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some non-finance jobs you can consider post-Private Equity that keep the door open for a future move into Venture Capital:

  1. Corporate Development (Corp Dev)

    • Corporate development within a specific business/company is a common transition. It offers a better work-life balance and allows you to develop deep industry knowledge and contacts, which are beneficial for VC roles.
  2. Chief of Staff

    • This role often involves working closely with the executive team, providing strategic support, and gaining a broad understanding of the business. It can be a good stepping stone to VC as it demonstrates leadership and strategic thinking.
  3. Growth Roles

    • Positions focused on scaling businesses, such as growth marketing or growth strategy, can be valuable. These roles often require a deep understanding of market dynamics and customer acquisition, which are relevant skills for VC.
  4. Go-to-Market (GTM) Roles

    • GTM roles involve developing and executing strategies to bring products to market. This experience is highly relevant to VC, especially if you are interested in early-stage investments.
  5. Product Management

    • Product management roles involve overseeing the development and success of a product. This role requires a mix of technical, business, and leadership skills, which are highly valued in the VC world.
  6. Joining/Founding a Startup

    • Working at or founding a startup can provide hands-on experience in building and scaling a business. This experience is directly relevant to VC, especially if you are interested in investing in early-stage companies.

These roles not only provide a break from the traditional finance environment but also equip you with the skills and experience that are highly valued in the VC industry.

Sources: Breaking into Venture Capital out of Undergrad??, Private Equity vs Venture Capital - Differences and Similarities, Life after 2 years in Private Equity, Breakdown of Post-IB Exit Opportunities, Breakdown of Post-IB Exit Opportunities

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