Best Path to PE from BB Coverage w/ Outsourced Modeling

I've seen similar threads, but would love some more specific advice.

I'm about to start as an AN1 at a mid-tier BB (think BofA/Citi) in a coverage group that outsources most modeling work. Long-term, I'd like to end up in UMM/large-cap PE.

Curious which path would maximize my chances:

  1. Recruit directly for 2028 PE associate roles (on- or off-cycle).
  2. Lateral to an EB or top BB after ~1 year, then recruit for PE.
  3. Attempt an internal move to M&A before recruiting.
  4. Something else?

Would appreciate hearing from anyone who has faced a similar decision and how things played out.

Also, on a broader level, should large-cap PE even be the goal? For those who have seen both sides, is UMM/MM PE potentially better from a long-term perspective (carry, upward mobility, lifestyle, etc.)?

Interested in optimizing for both wealth creation and overall career quality over the long run.

Thanks in advance.

2 Comments
 

No one actually cares if you’re product or coverage. It would look worse to me as an interviewer if you hopped around. Demonstrates lack of commitment. There’s a reason we give folks modeling tests as part of the interview. It’s because some coverage kids know how to model and some product kids don’t.

 

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