First round big PE

Guys,

I'm currently working in a small PE boutique and I have an interview planned for a mega-fund (think TPG/BX/Carlyle) next week. It's going to be the first round.

What do you think I should expect and prepare? I'm more used to ib interviews (I've been focused on FIG teams), but I didn't expect to hear anything from that fund...

Edit: my current firm is in NYC while the PE job is in London. Just saying in case processes are different...

16 Comments
 

BX..

If you have done PE before it will be technical, maybe some probability brain teasers around flipping coins etc. be able to run through an lbo on a piece of paper and know reasonable assumptions for it etc. know multiple analysis, what impacts the ratios, maybe a bit of capital structure changes etc. how it impacts the firms rating. usually two interviews

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Best Response

I can only give you my run-down of experience with interviewing with these funds (I never interviewed at TPG, but at another megafund of that caliber): First rounds were always modeling tests (LBO, Operating Models etc.) followed by a quick Fit interview (why PE, what made you interested in PE, why our fund, what seperates our strategy from others and why does that appeal to you). Then as you move along and proved you can model and are not a socially awkward dude, you move into discussion involving investment ideas (in what industry would you invest at the moment) and then you basically have to come up with a valid investment thesis on the spot. if you pass that as well (of which you will have a lot), there's only the dinner left with the seniors ;)

I'm talking about liquid. Rich enough to have your own jet. Rich enough not to waste time. Fifty, a hundred million dollars, buddy. A player. Or nothing. See my Blog & AMA
 

Let me know if you need a sample, I have one of the test series.

I'm talking about liquid. Rich enough to have your own jet. Rich enough not to waste time. Fifty, a hundred million dollars, buddy. A player. Or nothing. See my Blog & AMA
 

To anyone whom I send the test: SB's are highly appreciated ;)

I'm talking about liquid. Rich enough to have your own jet. Rich enough not to waste time. Fifty, a hundred million dollars, buddy. A player. Or nothing. See my Blog & AMA
 
MatrickTo anyone whom I send the test: SB's are highly appreciated ;)

after three hours of sleep last night i've just about had enough. can i get a copy of the test please? thanks.

 

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