Choosing PE Jobs: How Important is Industry Focus vs. Firm Reputation?
Wanted to ask the more experienced monkeys here about criteria for choosing PE jobs: Should you put more importance in the sector coverage of the position, or the firm reputation?
Let's say I'm interested in Technology and Tech PE, though obviously not 100% certain given I'm still young.
What is a better career move between (a) Apollo/BX, which I'm sure is a superb generalist experience but can't guarantee TMT exposure (esp. at Apollo); and (b) something like Francisco Partners, which is solid MM TMT PE.
Which should I go to? Do I start building expertise/network in TMT by heading to FP? Are there a lot of dividends to reap by leaning into your chosen sector right out of the gate? Or is it safer to just go for the superior platform and learn from the best of the best before B-School, even if I'm doing random distressed deals in oil & gas a far cry away from technology.
I am looking to optimize: 1. B-School Placement 2. Having the best optionality (esp into Technology PE but also CorpDev/HF) in post-MBA recruiting 3. General long-term credibility in the business world
Thanks a lot.