MF PE Co-Invest -> ???

I know there are a few top Co Invest platforms out there with twp year Associate programs. I'm interested in LMM Buyout in the long term, but currently lack brand names on my resume, and I worry that without a goof brand on my resume I will be hurt in the long term. Does it make sense to take an associate position at a MF Platform if my end goal is to rise through the ranks at a buyout bund with <1BN fund size? Is the transition to buyout possible without an MBA? Thanks for insight from those already on the buyside

4 Comments
 

Assuming you’re going to a Tier 1 co-invest manager, I would say it’s absolutely possible (but not necessarily an easy one). I know people in those seats and some have moved to funds with a respectable caliber. I’ve also seen, but to a lesser extent, the move to private credit, although not as common, but that’s probably due to private credit only now becoming more mainstream.

 

Yes - I'm referring to a co-invest the only team at a harborvest, Lexington, Alpinvest. What level of fund in direct would you think is feasible, assuming you also don't have a BB on your resume, and instead a Euro/ Japanese Bank? Fund Size 500 - 1,000 M latest fund size? Could growth/ late-stage vc be possible, or less likely given lack of port co work in co-invest? Really appreciate any input.

 
Most Helpful

Consequuntur eligendi nesciunt praesentium rerum labore temporibus. Nihil ducimus quis et iusto.

Career Advancement Opportunities

November 2026 Private Equity

  • Blackstone Group 99.6%
  • The Riverside Company 99.3%
  • KKR (Kohlberg Kravis Roberts) 98.9%
  • Warburg Pincus 98.5%
  • Vista Equity Partners 98.2%

Overall Employee Satisfaction

November 2026 Private Equity

  • Blackstone Group 99.6%
  • KKR (Kohlberg Kravis Roberts) 99.3%
  • The Riverside Company 98.9%
  • Ardian 98.5%
  • Warburg Pincus 98.1%

Professional Growth Opportunities

November 2026 Private Equity

  • Bain Capital 99.6%
  • Blackstone Group 99.3%
  • The Riverside Company 98.9%
  • Starwood Capital Group 98.5%
  • KKR (Kohlberg Kravis Roberts) 98.2%

Total Avg Compensation

November 2026 Private Equity

  • Principal (9) $653
  • Director/MD (24) $547
  • Vice President (100) $364
  • 3rd+ Year Associate (106) $280
  • 2nd Year Associate (236) $272
  • 1st Year Associate (414) $231
  • 3rd+ Year Analyst (33) $157
  • 2nd Year Analyst (97) $134
  • 1st Year Analyst (274) $126
  • Intern/Summer Associate (40) $79
  • Intern/Summer Analyst (357) $61
notes
16 IB Interviews Notes

“... there’s no excuse to not take advantage of the resources out there available to you. Best value for your $ are the...”

Leaderboard

success
From 10 rejections to 1 dream investment banking internship

“... I believe it was the single biggest reason why I ended up with an offer...”