IB to PE to IB

Hey guys,

I joined a small fund after IB, where most of the team came from top-tier MFs. I’ve spent 2 years in PE with decent deal reps, though I don’t have a platform investment to highlight yet. Also, I get below market comp (mostly carry)

I’m now transitioning to NY IB, mainly for location and compensation reasons. However, I’ve found it challenging to secure a buyout role at the Senior Associate level in NY, particularly given the current state of buyside recruiting and visa sponsorship constraints (assuming you are being headhunted for these roles?)

Looking ahead, would it be difficult or impossible to transition back to PE at the VP level (open to only US / Middle East based role)? I’ve seen some senior VPs make the move from IB to PE in NY/Toronto, but I’d love to hear from anyone with experience or insights into similar moves.

I understand this forum is largely interns and analysts, but if any experienced candidates have perspective, I’d greatly appreciate your thoughts!

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Totally agree with your points. I was curious—would the story be easier to sell if I network with MM PE shops in a lower cost-of-living city down the line?

I genuinely enjoyed my time in IB but didn’t find PE as fulfilling. That said, I’m wondering what my options might look like if I eventually get burned out by IB hours and want something with a better work-life balance. Corp dev can be hit or miss, so I’m not sure it’s always the best alternative.

Also, I care more about earning money today versus waiting for a carry check 5–7 years down the road, which, as we know, is highly dependent on fund performance/partner doing the deal. Am I thinking about this the wrong way?

 

Decide what you want to do long-term and do that. The income in these jobs is back-weighted so the $100k in cash a year today won't matter in 20 years. If you want to be an investor do that, if you want to be a banker do that as you did both already. 

For what its worth, most of my friends in PE hate their life and half my friends in IB hate their life

 

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