PE Case study help

Hello,

I have a case study for an associate position at a mid-market fund in a few days. How should I prepare for this? I’ve already completed the modeling test, so I assume it will be less quantitative. I was informed that I’ll be given a document to review for one hour, followed by an hour of Q&A.

Is there anything specific I should focus on? Do you have a plan or highlights of key topics I should mention? This will be an infrastructure case study, by the way.

Thanks a lot for your help!

3 Comments
 

For an infrastructure-focused case study with a one-hour review and Q&A session, here's a structured approach based on the most helpful WSO content:

  1. Understand the Document Thoroughly:

    • Focus on key metrics like IRR, cash flow stability, and leverage levels, as these are critical in infrastructure investments.
    • Identify the project's stage (construction, operational, etc.) and its risk profile (e.g., contracted vs. merchant revenue).
    • Pay attention to assumptions provided, such as construction costs, timelines, capacity, and revenue projections.
  2. Prepare for Common Infrastructure Themes:

    • Be ready to discuss the stability and long-term nature of infrastructure investments, as well as their alignment with macro trends like carbon reduction targets.
    • Highlight your understanding of the niche technical skills required in infrastructure, such as project finance modeling or tax equity structures.
  3. Key Topics to Focus On:

    • Valuation Techniques: Be prepared to discuss DCF, public comps, or any specific valuation method relevant to infrastructure assets.
    • Risk Assessment: Show your ability to identify and mitigate risks, such as construction delays, regulatory changes, or market demand fluctuations.
    • Return Analysis: Be ready to back into equity valuations or discuss how to meet return requirements (e.g., post-tax levered returns).
    • Strategic Fit: Demonstrate how the asset aligns with the fund's strategy or portfolio.
  4. Q&A Preparation:

    • Practice articulating your thought process clearly and concisely.
    • Be ready to justify your assumptions and decisions made during the review.
    • Prepare to answer broader questions like "Why infrastructure?" or "What trends are you following in the space?" with conviction and insight.
  5. Additional Resources:

  6. Final Tips:

    • Stay calm and structured during the Q&A. Break down your answers into logical steps.
    • Show genuine interest in infrastructure and its long-term growth potential.
    • Avoid overcomplicating your responses; focus on clarity and relevance.

Good luck with your case study! If you need further clarification, feel free to ask.

Sources: Interviewing For Infrastructure Investment Roles, Interviewing For Infrastructure Investment Roles, Q&A: Lower Middle Market PE Associate -- Ask Me Anything, Associate in Private Equity FoF - will answer questions, Q&A: Career start and progression across IBD // Restructuring // PE special sits

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

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