Breaking into PE from a Non-Target with Visa Hurdles - Need Advice
Hey everyone,
I could really use some advice and encouragement right now. I graduated with a Master's in Finance from a non-target school and managed to land an FP&A role at an insurance firm. My dream has always been to break into PE, but it feels like an uphill battle.
I'm pretty decent at networking, but being on a visa made finding this current role a real task since a lot of companies don’t sponsor. So, my big question is: can someone from a non-target school actually break into PE? And if so, how? What extra steps should I be taking?
Are there certain networking strategies or events that would be more effective? or any advice on how to position my FP&A experience as relevant to PE?
Any advice, tips, or shared experiences would be super helpful. Thanks a lot!
I'm going to give you the hard truth here: the problem here is not your visa, it's your job (FP&A). You have an effectively 0% chance of breaking into PE from your current role, and will need a stepping stone role (or two). Either lateral to IB/consulting directly, or go TAS/valuations -> IB. You could also go the MBA route but PE from a post-MBA IB role is pretty hard to secure.
Good luck, but at some point you will need to understand you missed the train, or that you need to take specific steps to reposition yourself.
tks, good to know, was suggested by a FP&A friend to work in IB as well, says it's a good stepping stone, but do people working in IB really hold the goal to break into PE? Isn't it harder to break into IB than PE?
While IB is extremely competitive to break into, PE is still a fair amount harder - There are fewer associate/analyst positions at PE firms than there are at banks, and there are thousands of qualified bankers/consultants every year gunning for those spots.
My advice to you would be start preparing / networking and aim for IB analyst roles. Doesn't have to be a huge name Bulge Bracket, but I would aim for banks that have had some success sending prior analysts into PE (do LinkedIn searches for alumni of the bank in PE). You will have have to do your two years as an analyst, but should get some good looks from PE firms if you go that route.
very appreciated
Bump for you. similar to your situation. Here is a list of some RE companies that are welcoming for international students if you're interested: KPMG, Greystar, Continental Properties, EQT Exeter, EY, Faropoint, Hines, Link Logistics. Feel free to extend it if you know more companies in HiFi that provide sponsorship! I wish you the best of luck.
Velit rerum sequi accusamus ipsum dolorem. Ea est accusantium et reiciendis. Dolor sint et qui.
Impedit ut et hic provident. Eligendi minus qui eum nihil sed labore. Ipsum non ex fugit tempore deleniti beatae nostrum.
Quaerat veniam cum autem voluptatem. Recusandae dolor fugiat eaque quis. Ut provident architecto qui cumque optio.
See All Comments - 100% Free
WSO depends on everyone being able to pitch in when they know something. Unlock with your email and get bonus: 6 financial modeling lessons free ($199 value)
or Unlock with your social account...