Associate Recruiting for both Special Sits and Buyout PE

Incoming analyst at a tier 2 EB Rx team (MOE/PWP/GHL). I am interested in recruiting for the special sits teams of MFs like APO HVF, KKR Strategic Investments, Carlyle Special Sits where such teams are available but also for value/complexity skewed PE like CD&R, Searchlight, GTCR, Elliot PE, etc. outside of these limited seats.

Is this possible or will Headhunters ask me to choose one or the other? Would appreciate hearing from people who either did this or were unable to do this.

5 Comments
 

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here's what you need to know:

  1. Recruiting for Special Situations and Buyout PE:

    • It is possible to recruit for both special situations teams at mega-funds (MFs) and value/complexity skewed private equity (PE) firms.
    • Headhunters typically want to understand your preferences and investing style. They may ask you to articulate your focus but being open to multiple options is acceptable.
  2. Headhunter Strategy:

    • You can express a preference for special situations teams while also showing interest in value/complexity skewed PE firms.
    • Provide reasons for your interest in both areas to demonstrate a well-rounded understanding and flexibility.
  3. Industry Insights:

    • Many professionals have successfully navigated recruiting for both types of roles. It’s important to communicate your story effectively to headhunters and during interviews.
    • Highlight your experience and how it aligns with the requirements of both special situations and value/complexity skewed PE roles.
  4. Networking and Preparation:

    • Leverage your network, including alumni and colleagues, to gain insights and referrals.
    • Prepare thoroughly for technical interviews and be ready to discuss your deal experience in detail.

By following these steps, you can increase your chances of successfully recruiting for both special situations and value/complexity skewed PE roles.

Sources: https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/investment-banking/m7-ib-associate-full-time-recruiting?customgpt=1, From Private Equity Associate to VP in Private Equity, When to call PE recruiting quits?, Transitioning from IB/ER to HF Series - Part 2: Where to Interview and Behaviorals, 2019 On-Cycle PE Recruiting: Headhunter Ranking

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

You can’t be ambiguous with HHs. It must be clear cut. Obv you can tell different HHs different things so take a look at their client lists before engaging them.

Also congrats on Mizuho!

 
Most Helpful

Understand the telling different HHs different things, but this is the situation I am concerned about. CPI does recruiting for both Ares Special Opportunities and CVC PE. Similarly, Ratio does recruiting for both Apollo Hybrid Value and GTCR. If I am interested in both of these for each headhunter, how do I approach this situation?

My reasoning is that I like the investing styles of all 4 funds and am trying to choose firms not by asset class but by the overall investor experience I stand to gain. Is this a sufficient answer or am I better off sticking to one strategy between SS and Vanilla buyout?

 

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