Moving into GE in NYC

Hi all – US citizen here who’s been living in London since graduating. I’ve been thinking about moving back to the US, specifically NYC. I spent a couple years at a BB in London in a capital markets product group and have been at a VC fund since then. I've been thinking about moving into GE.

Would love to hear thoughts on how feasible that is. In hindsight, I probably should’ve moved internally at the bank into an industry or M&A group, but the opportunity I took felt like the right step at the time. I'm open to advice on how best to position myself now.

Some options I’ve been considering:
– Going back to NYC by rejoining IB (though I assume I’d have to join capital markets again first and then try to move internally to coverage - unclear if that’s even realistic at this point)
– Doing an MBA (not ideal, since I’d prefer not to delay things by 2 years and spend all the $)

5 Comments
 

Transitioning into Growth Equity (GE) in NYC from your current background is feasible, but it will require strategic positioning. Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some insights and actionable steps:

1. Leverage Your VC Experience

  • Your VC background is a strong asset for GE, as both fields involve evaluating growth-stage companies. Highlight your deal experience, ability to assess business models, and any operational insights you've gained.
  • Emphasize transferable skills like financial modeling, market analysis, and strategic thinking.

2. Networking is Key

  • Start building connections with professionals in NYC-based GE firms. Use LinkedIn, alumni networks, and industry events to reach out.
  • Engage with headhunters who specialize in GE roles. Be prepared to articulate why you're transitioning and how your experience aligns with GE.

3. Positioning Yourself for GE

  • If you lack direct GE experience, consider targeting firms that value diverse backgrounds, especially those with a VC or capital markets focus.
  • Be ready to explain your career narrative, including why you moved into VC and how it complements your GE aspirations.

4. Rejoining IB as a Stepping Stone

  • Rejoining IB in NYC could be a viable path, but moving from capital markets to coverage groups might be challenging. If you pursue this route, focus on firms or groups with strong GE deal flow.
  • Highlight your VC experience as a differentiator when pitching yourself for IB roles.

5. MBA Considerations

  • While an MBA isn't mandatory, it can provide access to GE recruiting pipelines and help you pivot more smoothly. If you decide against an MBA, ensure your networking and skill-building efforts are robust.

6. Alternative Pathways

  • Explore opportunities at middle-market or boutique GE firms, which may have more flexible hiring criteria.
  • Consider roles in corporate development or strategy at growth-stage companies, as these can serve as a bridge to GE.

Final Thoughts:

Your background in VC and capital markets is valuable, but you'll need to craft a compelling story and actively network to make the transition. If you're set on GE, focus on firms that align with your experience and be persistent in your outreach efforts.

Sources: Q&A: woman in growth equity, Choose Between Two Offers (BB/MBB) - Looking for Advice, Transitioning from Tech Sales to IB, Ask me anything - Non Traditional Background to MM PE to H/S/W, From CEE Growth Equity to London-based Growth Equity with non-traditional background

I'm an AI bot trained on the most helpful WSO content across 17+ years.
 

Out of curiosity, how was your time in London, and how are you anticipating the ease of getting back to NYC as an American? I’ve been looking into making the move to London for a stint, would you recommend?

 
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London’s a great city and one of the few that really compares to NYC, but it has a totally different vibe. It’s way quieter, more peaceful, and feels more like a bunch of little villages. That said, the general outlook in the UK/EU is kind of gloomy. Fees are lower, the fragmentation of capital markets in Europe is a pain, and people just seem a bit more pessimistic overall. Those are the main reasons I’m thinking about moving back.

Other than that, there are pros and cons to both cities, and it’s hard to say which one’s actually better. Central Park, in my opinion, is nicer than any one park in London, but London has way more parks overall so from a nature perspective, London probably wins. Weekend trips to Europe are super easy from London, but honestly, most of the UK isn’t that great. NYC’s subway runs 24/7, which is nice, but London’s public transport is way cleaner, etc. 

If you can move to London for a couple of years knowing you can probably go back after, I’d definitely recommend it. I think it’s always a great experience to live in a new city, and you’ll have the chance to explore more of Europe while you’re here. As for how easy it’ll be to get back to NYC - I’m honestly not sure. I think moving back internally at my BB would’ve been the smoothest route, but that ship has sailed. No idea how receptive firms will be to my profile now.

 

Thanks so much for the detailed answer - I appreciate that. I unfortunately don’t have much to offer in the way of advice on your side but best of luck - with a BB background and unique buyside experience I’m sure it’ll work out

 

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