Audit -> Real Assets @ 30-33 (London)

Based on the most helpful WSO content, your plan to transition from audit to real assets is ambitious but realistic, provided you execute it strategically. Here’s a breakdown of your approach and some additional recommendations:

1. Your Current Position and Background

• Your experience auditing PE/VC funds and fund managers is a solid foundation. It gives you exposure to investment structures and financial analysis, which are relevant to real assets.
• The CFA designation is highly respected in the real assets and credit space. Completing it will definitely enhance your credibility and technical knowledge.

2. Short-Term Transition (2023-2025)

• Move to Fund Accounting or Management Accounting: This is a logical step. Target roles at real estate developers, infrastructure funds, or asset managers with a focus on real assets. Highlight your audit experience with PE/VC clients to demonstrate your understanding of fund structures and financial reporting.
• Build Financial Models: Your plan to create six watertight models (real estate and infrastructure-focused) is excellent. These will showcase your technical skills and understanding of the asset class. Consider taking a specialized real estate or infrastructure modeling course to ensure your models are industry-standard.

3. Mid-Term Goals (2025-2028)

• Gain Relevant Experience: Use your time in fund or management accounting to deepen your understanding of real assets. Seek opportunities to work on projects involving real estate or infrastructure investments, even if it’s tangential to your role.
• Network Aggressively: Leverage your friends at IFC, KFW, EBRD, and Brookfield. Attend industry events, join real estate and infrastructure-focused groups, and connect with professionals in your target roles. Networking is critical for breaking into competitive fields like real assets credit.
• Refine Your Pitch: By 2028, you’ll need a compelling narrative to explain your transition. Emphasize your audit background, CFA designation, financial modeling expertise, and hands-on experience in real assets.

4. Additional Recommendations

• Consider a Real Estate or Infrastructure-Focused Role Earlier: If possible, aim to transition directly into a real estate or infrastructure-focused fund accounting role rather than a generalist position. This will align your experience more closely with your long-term goals.
• Explore Certifications or Courses: Beyond the CFA, consider certifications like ARGUS for real estate or specialized infrastructure finance courses. These can further differentiate you.
• Stay Motivated: It’s easy to feel discouraged, but remember that many professionals have successfully transitioned from audit to more dynamic roles. Your plan is well thought out, and with persistence, you can achieve your goals.

5. Is It Realistic?

• Yes, your plan is realistic. The combination of CFA, financial modeling, and relevant experience will make you a strong candidate for real assets credit roles by 2028. The key is to stay focused, execute your plan methodically, and leverage your network.

Remember, transitions like this take time and effort, but your clear roadmap and determination put you in a strong position to succeed. Keep pushing forward!

Sources: Q&A: 1st year FoF Infrastructure at Buyside, Q&A: 1st year FoF Infrastructure at Buyside, What is a realistic goal in real estate development, Move from Accounting to Real Estate - is it possible?, Transition from RE Development to REPE