PE > OCIO a good life transition? What does Comp look like?

Currently in a situation where I'm trying to exit direct PE right around that Sr. Associate/VP level - I know, bad time to get out, market is shit, good luck getting a job, I've heard it all. Bottom line is, I've done well at my job, I can crank, but I'm entering late 20s and don't wanna work this bizarre life long-term and frankly have a lot of other priorities.

Originally was planning on going the PE @ Pension/SWF, co-investment, FoF (or secondaries) route to stay in investing, make somewhat similar cash comp to regular MM PE (so like >$350K for Sr. Associate / VP level), but have a better life that I can see myself living in the long term. That said, market is pretty rough so I've been looking at a bunch of other tangential shit - strategic finance, corp dev, etc. Came across an OCIO opportunity and was curious on thoughts here? Although more client-facing (so maybe prof svc dynamics at play), seems like you still touch aspects of co-investing and manager diligence, being effectively an outsourced family office, with the added dynamic of doing client meetings. People seem much nicer, and it doesn't seem like you work too hard.

Any data points on career trajectory and comp at this level? It's a world I'm not familiar with so I don't have a great sense of the market or resources to find this stuff, but I'd assume comp is lower than what I'd be expecting from more investing roles, just wanted a sense of how big of a haircut I'd be taking (e.g., I'm OK making PE Associate comp as a mid-level, but only if I'm working straight 9-5).

Frankly in PE, we'd kind of shit on the OCIO people that got brought into co-invest syndication because we thought they added no value and were a pain in the ass. But that's also just classic finance asshole thinking and I'm getting to the stage where it might be nice to be on the other side of the table.

Anyone else think about or explore this path?

3 Comments
 

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here's what you need to know about transitioning from Private Equity (PE) to an Outsourced Chief Investment Officer (OCIO) role:

Career Transition Considerations:

  • Work-Life Balance: OCIO roles generally offer a better work-life balance compared to direct PE roles. This can be appealing if you're looking to prioritize other aspects of your life.
  • Client-Facing Role: OCIO positions are more client-facing, involving client meetings and relationship management. This can be a shift from the more internally focused work in PE.
  • Skill Utilization: You will still engage in co-investing and manager diligence, similar to some aspects of PE, but with a broader focus on client needs and portfolio management.

Compensation Insights:

  • Compensation Comparison: While exact figures can vary, it's generally expected that OCIO roles may offer lower compensation compared to direct PE roles, especially at the Sr. Associate/VP level.
  • PE Associate Comp: If you're okay with making PE Associate-level compensation (around $350K) but with a more manageable work schedule (e.g., 9-5), OCIO could be a viable option.
  • Market Conditions: Given the current rough market conditions, exploring OCIO roles might provide a more stable and less stressful career path compared to staying in direct PE.

Community Insights:

  • Perception in PE: It's common in PE to undervalue OCIO roles, but this perspective can change as you prioritize work-life balance and long-term career satisfaction.
  • Career Trajectory: The career trajectory in OCIO can still be rewarding, with opportunities for growth and development, albeit with potentially slower compensation growth compared to PE.

Final Thoughts:

  • Exploration: It's worth exploring OCIO roles if you're looking for a better work-life balance and are comfortable with a potential compensation haircut.
  • Long-Term Fit: Consider how the role aligns with your long-term career goals and personal priorities.

For more detailed insights and personal experiences, you might want to check out relevant threads and discussions on WSO forums.

Sources: What has been your total compensation progression in your career?, What is the career and salary progression for an average performer in high finance?, Exiting Investment Banking to Corp Fin / Corp Strat / Corp Dev, 4 Real-Life Consulting Exit Opps of My Former Colleagues, Strategic finance?

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