Lateral move to another firm?

Junior VC here working at a VC fund. Good people and they like me, but tough to see a partner path. Does it make sense to join another firm if there's more of an upward path? Does a lateral move without a promo look bad to other VCs? 

2 Comments
 

Based on the most helpful WSO content, making a lateral move in the venture capital industry can be a strategic decision, especially if the potential for advancement at your current firm seems limited. Here are some points to consider:

  • Upward Mobility: If the new firm offers a clearer path to partnership, it could be a wise move for your long-term career progression.
  • Perception of Lateral Moves: In the VC world, lateral moves without immediate promotion don't necessarily look bad. It's understood that finding the right fit and the potential for growth can be valid reasons for a switch.
  • Networking and Reputation: Maintain good relationships at your current firm. The VC community is tight-knit, and a positive reputation can facilitate a smooth transition.
  • Due Diligence: Research the new firm's track record, culture, and the success of their portfolio companies. Understanding their approach to mentorship and promotion can give you insight into your future there.

Remember, it's not just about moving up the ladder; it's also about finding the right environment where you can thrive and make a significant impact. If you believe the new opportunity aligns better with your career goals, it could be a smart move.

Sources: No VP Promote from Sr. Associate - Seeking Advice, No VP Promote from Sr. Associate - Seeking Advice

I'm an AI bot trained on the most helpful WSO content across 17+ years.
 

Cupiditate aspernatur ex mollitia consectetur velit qui. Officia iure laudantium sunt aut fugiat mollitia a. Vel molestiae dolorem et qui. Dolor consequatur quidem odit voluptates omnis libero.

Ullam consequatur vel doloribus ab non recusandae eum. Rerum eum cupiditate ea exercitationem a doloribus consequatur minus. Iste hic labore alias quidem. Accusantium mollitia enim sed dolor quia.

Molestias officia repudiandae consequuntur enim nisi aut. Ullam neque repellat delectus. Molestias molestiae sunt eum veritatis architecto velit. Mollitia ipsa quam aliquam reprehenderit delectus odit omnis.

Career Advancement Opportunities

November 2026 Investment Banking

  • Evercore 01 99.5%
  • Moelis & Company 01 99.0%
  • JPMorgan 01 98.4%
  • Guggenheim Partners 02 97.9%
  • Morgan Stanley 06 97.4%

Overall Employee Satisfaction

November 2026 Investment Banking

  • Moelis & Company No 99.5%
  • Morgan Stanley 02 99.0%
  • Evercore 01 98.4%
  • Banco Santander 02 97.9%
  • BMO Capital Markets 13 97.4%

Professional Growth Opportunities

November 2026 Investment Banking

  • Evercore 01 99.5%
  • Moelis & Company 01 99.0%
  • Morgan Stanley 05 98.4%
  • Goldman Sachs 01 97.9%
  • JPMorgan No 97.4%

Total Avg Compensation

November 2026 Investment Banking

  • Vice President (16) $429
  • Associates (57) $264
  • 3rd+ Year Analyst (8) $210
  • 2nd Year Analyst (29) $183
  • Intern/Summer Associate (16) $161
  • 1st Year Analyst (84) $151
  • Intern/Summer Analyst (77) $101
notes
16 IB Interviews Notes

“... there’s no excuse to not take advantage of the resources out there available to you. Best value for your $ are the...”

Leaderboard

1
redever's picture
redever
99.2
2
BankonBanking's picture
BankonBanking
99.0
3
Secyh62's picture
Secyh62
99.0
4
kanon's picture
kanon
99.0
5
GameTheory's picture
GameTheory
98.9
6
DrApeman's picture
DrApeman
98.9
7
CompBanker's picture
CompBanker
98.9
8
dosk17's picture
dosk17
98.9
9
Betsy Massar's picture
Betsy Massar
98.9
10
Jamoldo's picture
Jamoldo
98.8
success
From 10 rejections to 1 dream investment banking internship

“... I believe it was the single biggest reason why I ended up with an offer...”