Is it honestly possible to enter UMM/MF PE from a mid bank
For context, I'm a summer analyst at a MM/fringe BB (RBC, Wells Fargo etc) from a t10 target school and all signs point towards me returning there unless I royally fuck up over the next few weeks.
Is it possible to get HH outreach from top PE funds or even get off cycle offers at UMM/MF funds (Bain Capital, Thoma, etc) if I network?
I'm trying to understand whether that's even a possibility, and if it objectively isn't, if my time is better spent grinding to lateral to a better firm to put myself in the running that way. I'd appreciate any insight, thanks!
Bump
Realistically - doesn't happen frequently. I'm sure you can find a handful of folks who did this, but it's not always easy to tell if people have connections that helped land those opportunities, if they just got super lucky, etc. Your main issue is these firms do not typically get outreach for the top MFs, especially very desirable ones like Thoma.
Thoma posts all employees on their website so you can see where they come from. Mostly BB/EB. Also, you should be looking at your specific group's exits - group matters as much as bank. If no one from your team has ever gone to a MF, it's not super likely you would be the one to change that.
It is definitely possible - joining a UMM tech fund from a ~40 person tech boutique. Just need to be extra prepared and ideally have some solid deal experience. You will not have the benefit of the doubt so your margin for error will certainly be smaller (both in the sense you will have less chances / have to do better in each interview), but if you crush it, you will still be offered once you get past head hunters. Would recommend off-cycle in these instances as on-cycle is much more skewed to those from big names
Answer key:
BB people: No, impossible
People who have done it: Yes, but you’re gonna have to grind
Honestly I would lateral first before burning out on PE processes
Accusamus exercitationem nulla dolorum debitis. Nihil voluptatem necessitatibus sit aliquam dolorem laudantium. Magni vero id illum voluptates aut.
Iusto maiores nesciunt necessitatibus occaecati est est. Est voluptas architecto deleniti aperiam. Impedit vitae cumque earum ipsa.
See All Comments - 100% Free
WSO depends on everyone being able to pitch in when they know something. Unlock with your email and get bonus: 6 financial modeling lessons free ($199 value)
or Unlock with your social account...