VC Frustration

Hello,

I have been working at startup VC fund for awhile now. I had some early frustrations but given the startup nature and the fact I came from an IB background I wanted to give it a shot before making any rash conclusions. I have been an associate for a year and a half and though we have made decent strides I think my firm has some fundamental issues that don't align with my values, work style, and long term goals -- I think its not a fit for me.

Why am I posting?

For those with a similar background (ex-IB or ex-PE) now in VC - how have you found VC? Did you move to another VC shop and find your fit? Does Growth Equity offer a nice blend of quantitive and qualitative analysis? 

Thanks in advance. Appreciate any and all discussion around this topic.

3 Comments
 
Most Helpful

Its been an year and half for me at an early stage fund, moved here from PE.

I attest to your frustrations. 

I really enjoy the work, but the investments you do are a function of the partners. I am pretty much frustrated that 80% of my deals dont go through because of my partners' attitude. I remember once we were just starting the DD stage and the founding partner said I dont think this is a good investment because of no logic but his gut and we pulled out. 

At the start of my career I wanted to close great deals, futuristic startups to build my personal brand as to grow as a VC. But I quickly realised you need to do your DD as well on the fund thesis and fundamentals. 

Having said that I sometime get frustrated by the pay. The majority of the wealth comesments from the carry and getting points on that from partner is not an easy task. 

Also. I feel the investments atleast at an early stage are more of a bet on a sector and the founding team and not on the business (as it does not exists). 

I too feel getting in a growth stage VC will be the best blend, you develop enough depth in a sector and there are some numbers to play with. Also, the pay is better if you want to settle and start a family etc.

In conclusion I do like my work as a VC and I intend to stay here, but my next switch will be a more targeted one

Happy to deep dive on specific points

 

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