Advice for Next Steps in Career

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here's a breakdown of your options and advice for your next steps:

1. Larger Company with Multiple Asset Classes:

   • This path aligns with your goal of gaining exposure to a variety of asset classes. Larger firms often have the resources and deal flow to provide a broader experience.
   • It also offers the opportunity to work on more complex and high-profile transactions, which can be valuable for your long-term career growth.
   • However, keep in mind that moving to a larger company might mean less autonomy compared to your current role in a family office.

2. Capital Markets D/E Placement Team:

   • Joining a debt/equity placement team at a large shop is a great way to gain exposure to a wide range of asset classes and deal structures.
   • This role would make you highly transactional, which aligns with your desire to be more deal-focused.
   • It also provides a strong foundation in capital markets, which is a versatile skill set that can open doors to various roles in the future.
   • The downside is that it might not give you as much direct exposure to asset management or long-term investment strategies.

3. Investment Sales Team:

   • While investment sales can be lucrative and provide transactional experience, as you noted, these teams often specialize in specific asset classes.
   • If your goal is to explore a variety of asset classes, this might not be the best fit unless you find a team that works across multiple property types.

Recommendation:

If you're young in the business and still exploring where you want to "settle," the Capital Markets D/E Placement Team seems like the best fit. It offers the broadest exposure to different asset classes and deal types while keeping you highly transactional. This experience can help you identify which asset classes and roles you enjoy most, setting you up for a more focused move later in your career.

Alternatively, if you value stability and a more gradual transition, moving to a larger company with multiple asset classes could also be a strong choice. It would allow you to continue building your skills in acquisitions and asset management while diversifying your exposure.

Ultimately, the decision depends on your risk tolerance and how much you value transactional experience versus asset management exposure at this stage in your career.

Sources: Career advice needed: Acquisitions vs Asset Management, Career Prospects Advice! Where do I stand., Career Path - Development or Investments/Acquisitions, Asset Management as a long-term career?, Career Advice: Acquisitions vs. Development