Orange County VC / GE (Stanford MBA, McKinsey)
Hey monkeys,
I’m looking to break into the VC / GE space in Orange County. Would appreciate any knowledge on the landscape.
I’m also pivoting from a consulting and private equity background, so any help as to how I can best position myself would be much appreciated. I’m a former McKinsey consultant and Stanford MBA, so I’m hoping to get some looks. But apart from that, I don’t know what to expect in terms of specific role or comp.
From what I gather, there’s a handful of shops including:
RX3
CerraCap
Toba
Cambridge
Ankona
Blade
Okapi
I’m sure I’m missing a ton. Don’t have access to pitch book but any resources you can throw. My way would be very helpful.
Thanks everyone, quite green on the space and looking to get up to speed.
Based on the most helpful WSO content, breaking into the VC/GE space in Orange County with your background from McKinsey and a Stanford MBA is a strong starting point. Here are some tips to position yourself effectively:
Leverage Your Network: With your background, you likely have a robust network. Reach out to Stanford alumni, former McKinsey colleagues, and any contacts in the VC/GE space. Personal connections can provide insights and open doors that are not publicly available.
Highlight Relevant Experience: Tailor your resume and cover letter to emphasize skills and experiences that are transferable to VC/GE, such as analytical abilities, experience in due diligence, market research, and understanding of business growth strategies.
Understand the Landscape: You've listed several firms already, which is a great start. Try to learn more about each firm's investment thesis, portfolio companies, and the backgrounds of their team members. This will help you tailor your approach to each firm.
Prepare for Interviews: Brush up on your knowledge of financial modeling, deal evaluation, and market analysis. WSO offers courses like the Venture Capital Course that could be beneficial.
Consider WSO Resources: While you don't have access to PitchBook, WSO has a wealth of resources, including interview prep courses, financial modeling training, and forums where you can ask questions and get insights from professionals in the field.
Stay Informed: Keep up with industry news and trends in the VC/GE space. This will not only help you in interviews but also allow you to contribute to conversations and network more effectively.
Be Open to Different Roles: VC/GE firms can offer a variety of roles. Be open to different positions that can get your foot in the door, such as an analyst or associate role, especially since you're pivoting into the space.
Compensation Expectations: Compensation in VC/GE can vary widely depending on the firm's size, location, and your role. Given your background, you may command a competitive salary, but be prepared to discuss this during the interview process.
Remember, persistence is key. Keep networking, learning, and applying until you find the right fit. Good luck!
Sources: https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/real-estate/orange-county-ca-debt-roles-in-cre?customgpt=1, Clarity on the Growth Equity Landscape, Multi-Family in Southern California, London late stage VC / GE scene
Bump
Loser
Say something useful. Hell is the point of this? You must be miserable
Are you looking for more of a generalist fund or certain sector specialization? Stage of investment? Would be helpful to know more about what you're seeking.
Thanks. Looking more for a generalist fund, though since I’m agnostic can go in any direction. Similar with stage of investment, though I know there seems to be more growth equity shops in OC than early stage. I’m trying to cast the wide net since it’s a limited opportunity set in Orange County
Orange County is waaaay too specific. Don't know all of the funds you mentioned but given they're quite small they may only be bringing on one person every fund cycle (i.e. every 3-4 years), to the extent they even perform well enough to keep growing.
If you open the aperture to LA or San Diego you'll have many more institutional funds -- Kayne, JMI, Diversis, Marlin, etc.
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