What does it take to become partner at a MF?

Title says it all

1) what are these people like? How do they operate? We’re they extremely gifted juniors

2) what are characteristics considered when giving an associate a return offer after MBA and further promotion after that

3) what is the expected timeline to make partner

4) are there a lot of people stuck in middle management? Where do these people exit after having already made it so far at top PE groups? are portco operations still a possibility?

5 Comments
 

High IQ/EQ to do the job well and navigate the interpersonal aspect of climbing the ladder in a competitive career path and an insane amount of stamina to grind it out over decades (assuming you want to remain a Partner not just get the title).

I don’t think you can generalize a certain type of person who makes it. Probably an equal number of intellectuals, bros, etc.

My view is nobody cares about associates pre or post-MBA until you can prove you can get the job done and then promotions are based on the ability to take on aspects of the next position on the ladder.

 
Most Helpful

From what I’ve observed at my MF, it’s not really a matter of who is smarter as everyone that’s here is generally above a certain threshold. It’s really about who wants it enough to sacrifice certain aspects of your life and grind to get to the Partner level. This can be everything from being single well into your 30s to having kids much later in life even if married or simply sacrificing hobbies or taking care of your health. At this level, there is always a trade-off and different people value different aspects of their life very differently. 

 

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