Curious what their first round / first engagement looks like. I've just begun to work with them and they scheduled a 45 minutes sync on my calendar so wondering if this will be a paper LBO / technical heavy interview or more to touch base on my interests and what I'm interested in pursuing.
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Based on the most helpful WSO content, first-round engagements with headhunters like KEA Consultants are typically more of a "getting to know you" session rather than a technical-heavy interview. These initial calls are often designed to understand your background, interests, and career goals. They may ask questions like "Why private equity?" or "What makes your experience useful to us?" to gauge your fit and motivation.
While it's unlikely that this 45-minute sync will involve a paper LBO or technical grilling, it's always a good idea to be prepared for basic finance/accounting-related questions to demonstrate your understanding of key concepts like LBO levers, FCF, and financial statements. This ensures you leave a strong impression and are ready for any follow-up technical rounds.
Sources: Q&A: 1st year VC analyst (~750M AUM), Ask me anything - MM PE Associate, 1 year in, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/private-equity/a-guide-on-how-to-navigate-on-cycle-pe-recruiting?customgpt=1, 20 Most Frequently Asked Questions - London Edition, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/private-equity/on-cycle-recruiting-2018-what-to-expect?customgpt=1
I worked with them, they did the most intense screening of any headhunter I worked with. Didn’t make me do a paper LBO surprisingly but we went in depth on my motivations, background, goals, the prep I had done, etc. I’d recommend being ready for technicals when you connect with them just in case.
Did they tell you which funds they're working with atm?
I only know of AKKR - London office
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