Applying the PE firm that used to own the company I work at

I work at an investment-related company that was seeded with its very first equity commitment from PE firm A within the last 5 years. PE firm A eventually exited to PE firm B a couple years ago.

It is a small company and the Co-CEO’s of my company know me well.

A headhunter reach out to me for an open associate position at PE firm A, which is a shop I really want to work at. I sent my resume over and am waiting to hear back. I am also planning on sending a follow-up letter on my candidacy.

I am concerned because I know my Co-CEO’s know a lot of people at PE firm A, obviously, and PE firm A could potentially contact my company informally about me recruiting with them, which could hurt my reputation at my current company.

Should I just shut up and strive what I want or should I be cautious about proceeding with the letter?

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