LMM PE Associate to UMM PE VP?

Anyone have a sense for how difficult it is to "trade up" roles? Just by way of background, I went to a T20 undergrad (think Vandy, Northwestern) to BB banking to LMM PE in a large non-NYC/SF market. I've actually had a great experience at the fund in terms of quarterbacking deal execution, portfolio ops, etc., but from a sustainability and general comp trajectory it seems like larger funds are the place to be. Has anyone heard of someone successfully making the lateral move, either directly after 2-3 years as an associate/senior associate or after getting an M7 MBA? I'm on good terms with all the major headhunters (CPI, HSP etc.) but haven't broached the discussion with them yet. Thanks!

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