What is WSO's take on some of the Debt funds in Chicago? What is the career path like? Skills that one would obtain working at one vs traditional buyside? Will I become the queen/king of debt? Thoughts on comp and hours?
Maranon Capital Hancock Capital Management Golub Midwest Mezzanine Funds Deerpath Capital
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Bump - Learned some new info, many debt funds don't kick out people after their associate stint and will promote without an MBA. Looking at the debt story vs the equity story is the biggest difference against traditional buyside, but many of the firms you listed also invest mezzanine and equity so you get both experiences. You won't be making any operational improvements/changes at a debt shop. Comp is slightly lower all-in than traditional buyout depending on the fund, but still very competitive as they recruit primarily IB analysts. If you enjoy looking at capital structure and finding the optimal leverage and pricing debt, then it should definitely be something to look into. Hours are not bad average of 55-60, with the occasional 70-80 hour week when deals are closing.