When / how to lateral as an associate?

I started at a large cap PE fund around 9 months ago and pretty much hate the culture, plus the fund's strategy is moving in the opposite direction of what I'm interested in. I'm looking to lateral to either a smaller shop or a growth equity role but not sure when or how to do this. Based in Europe so there isn't really the culture of doing two years then out or using business school to move.

Not planning on doing anything until after Christmas and bonuses, when I'll be at roughly the 1 year mark. Is it better to hold on for another 6-12 months after that to begin looking? I don't want to waste my life at a job I hate but I still feel like I am learning the ropes and I'm wary of taking a step back if I move too early and have to start again as an AS1. 

In terms of process, is it just the usual through headhunters or should I be reaching out directly to funds I'm interested in? I have a list of maybe 5-10 firms I'd love to at least get to know more about, but I'm wary of rumours circling back to my current firm if I start reaching out directly to firms who may not even be hiring.

Thank you in advance

 

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