Someone tell me if Private Equity is for me?
I’m a product manager at a BB risk management and I don’t like my job. I get no joy or fulfillment from it. I’m considering pursuing a top10 MBA —> IB —> PE. I’ve always liked to analyze businesses and understand what makes them tick, growth opportunities, etc. But I am not an entrepreneur. I prefer working up the corporate ladder and don’t mind working long hours. Is PE for me if I like to analyze businesses? What do you actually do working at a PE shop?
Based on the most helpful WSO content, it sounds like Private Equity could be a good fit for you. In PE, you'll have the opportunity to deeply analyze businesses, understand their mechanics, and identify growth opportunities - all things you've mentioned enjoying.
In a PE role, you'll be involved in a variety of tasks such as sourcing and executing deals, managing portfolio companies, and eventually, exiting investments. This involves a lot of financial modeling, due diligence, and strategic planning.
However, it's important to be brutally honest with yourself and answer these questions: What do I want out of life? What type of person am I? Am I wired to go it alone or would I prefer a corporate environment / structure / status?
Also, remember that there's no such thing as a sure thing. It's a competitive field and getting into a top PE firm will require hard work, networking, and potentially, an MBA from a top business school.
Lastly, it's worth noting that the PE industry can be quite demanding in terms of hours and workload, especially at the junior level. But since you've mentioned that you don't mind working long hours, this might not be a problem for you.
So, take some time to reflect on these points and make the decision that feels right for you. Good luck!
Sources: Private Equity or Pizza Equity?, Private Equity vs. Venture Capital in 2018, From Private Equity Associate to VP in Private Equity, PE Associate Career Path
IMO if you want to do something fulfilling then high finance is not where to look.
You should do consulting. It will be a more straightforward path to a good seat for you, and you’ll spend 100% of your time “analyzing businesses” more or less. You should do some of the cases they do (book case in point is good for this) and see if you like the thinking patterns.
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