How does the PE partner track work?

I often hear that people are aiming for post MBA "partner track VP roles." Are these roles a direct path to partner, unless you really fuck up? Or is it still very hard to become a partner in this position?

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It's very hard to become a partner at any well-known fund. Track record, sourcing ability, personality, fit with firm culture, office politics, current number of partners all play a big part. A lot of funds will advertise "partner track" but the reality is that the guys at the top don't want to share economics.

Life is more than dollars
 
"VP in VC" I’ll add that the difference is generally stagnation in current role (take a ticket) as opposed to being kicked out (like pre-MBAs)

Building on this, is PE not up and out like banking, or will you be asked to leave after a few years at VP?

 

Partner in PE without hesitation. Lots (but not all) of banking MDs just grinding their way to the top. Partners in PE all earned it, either with deal sourcing ability, fundraising ability, or both.

Edit: assuming the monkey shit is some bitter banking MDs realizing they grinded for years to be wage slaves forever! Throw all the MS you want if it makes you feel better :)

 

While I don’t doubt that is this true at some firms, i don’t think it is the rule. My experience is that firms with healthy cultures and good returns are focused on growing the franchise. In general it is hard to grow your AUM and the value of the GP without having really strong junior partners.

 

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