What is the quickest you can move from consulting to PE?

I am working at a T2 strategy consulting firm known for PE work. I have worked on 8 CDDs in 6 months of working here. Looking to switch to PE ASAP. I know the typical route is 2 years consulting/IB, but what is the absolute earliest I can start applying? Not looking to join a top company per say

Also not sure if I qualify / it's worth applying for analyst roles instead of associate, at firms that accept people straight out of college

I won't go into details, but I'm trying to exit my current job ASAP

5 Comments
 

You’ll either need to talk to headhunters about your situation or do some personal outreach yourself. Shortly before on cycle when I recruited, there were a few immediate start opportunities at some UMM / MFs. Naturally, LMM funds may also be hiring on an ad hoc basis. 
 

I’d also caution you to try doing work outside of CDDs and be a bit selective in the fund you choose otherwise you’ll want to quit again after 6 months. 

 
Most Helpful

I've seen multiple friends move to PE and some growth shops after 1 year at Bain. It's not standard (you usually see 2 or 3 years) but it's totally possible, especially if it's a LMM fund and you have ties to the area.

Best bet is to reach out to the Headhunters and let them know that you're recruiting. You can also reach out directly to funds that you'd like to work for, especially smaller funds. I'd be hard pressed to believe that you'll make it to a MF or UMM with just 1 year of experience (especially coming from a T2) but it's much more possible the farther down you go.

I'd also recommend reaching out to alumni from your T2 that are in funds you'd like to join, and asking them for a referral.

Remember, always be kind-hearted.
 

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