Business Development Role/Transition - Advice

Hey everyone,

I'm looking for some advice on a PE-related career move. Right now, I'm working in a general marketing/comm role at a LMM PE firm, but am being moved into more of a marketing/business development position, as the firm thinks I will have more value in BD.

I don't come from a typical sales or PE/IB background, as my foundation is in marketing, specifically. I'm trying to do my due dil to set myself up for success in this new position, as I know it's a big jump. It has been difficult thus far to find other marketing or BD-focused individuals in the LMM PE world to network with and bounce ideas off of.

I'd appreciate your thoughts on the following:

1. Has anyone successfully made this type of transition before? If so, any advice to share? (I know this is a total shot in the dark but I'd be remiss not to at least ask!)

2. What hard and/or soft skills should I focus on developing? Thus far, I've focused on improving my knowledge of the deal process, deal screening, and cleaning up our intermediary database and marketing funnel.

3. Any recommendations for books, courses, or certifications to get me prepared? 

4. Any other words of advice or things I should consider (networking tips, etc.)?

Thanks in advance for your help!