Looking for advice - Would you suggest working as an investment analyst (4B AUM non profit org) v/s a corporate finance rotation in a oil and gas company (FPnA / corp M&A) to eventually get into PE? Ideally renewables PE is where I want to be. (Still contemplating MBA/Private equity certifications as good to haves)
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Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some insights to consider for your decision:
Investment Analyst at a Non-Profit Organization (4B AUM):
Corporate Finance Rotation in an Oil and Gas Company (FP&A / Corp M&A):
Considering an MBA/Private Equity Certifications:
Recommendation: - If your primary goal is to enter renewables PE, the corporate finance rotation in an oil and gas company might offer more relevant experience, especially if it includes M&A activities. This role can provide a strong foundation in corporate strategy and transactions, which are critical for PE. - However, if you value direct investment experience and portfolio management, the investment analyst role at the non-profit organization could also be beneficial, particularly if you can highlight your analytical skills and investment acumen.
Ultimately, both paths have their merits, and your decision should align with your long-term career goals and personal preferences. Consider the specific opportunities and experiences each role offers and how they can help you transition into renewables PE.
Sources: Lessons learned from working as an FLDP, Q&A: 3rd Year PE Associate ($10bn+ AUM, MBO/LBO, equity, mezz, distressed debt), Corporate Finance Q&A with accountingbyday, BJM85, STorIB, and djfiii, Corporate Finance Q&A with accountingbyday, BJM85, STorIB, and djfiii, Q&A: F500 Director of FP&A
In my opinion, deal exposure is going to be most important for breaking into PE at a junior level. Even if it’s a non-profit, $4B AUM is very credible and I’d imagine you get solid deal reps there - experience to the buyside process, how to think like an investor, diligence, etc and you can spin this appropriately when you interview down the line. Corp dev roles are generally not viewed as great because, unless it is for a sponsor-backed portco that is purely M&A focused, you will likely be more or entirely FP&A focused. In this scenario, you would probably need to move into an energy investment banking role for 1-2yrs before you can exit to PE. At the junior level, would take M&A experience over industry experience any day
I thought allocators do not move into direct investing roles, at best they do Fof. At the non profit I would be choosing managers to invest in not companies, isn’t that different skill sets than required ?
Im not the original commenter, but you never specified that the non-profit is an allocator role in your OP. This is new info.
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