Thoughts on a big4 role in San Fran?

I recently received an offer with the big 4 on a team that focuses on valuations on tech and life sciences companies in Silicon Valley. I have always wanted to work in the tech industry, but it has been very hard for me to transition to the west coast. I currently work at a boutique in Charlotte, but I don't really enjoy it because we are a very small firm and I don't get much financial modelling experience and do a lot of admin stuff and BD. I would certainly like to transfer to another bank, and ideally in the tech industry, but my efforts in lateralling haven't been successful. I have considered waiting until bonus time for other firms, and trying to lateral, but of course, a lateral is not a guarantee and the opportunity to move to the west coast may not come again.

My thought is that maybe I could switch to the valuation firm for 2-4 years, then move to PE or growth equity in Cali. The teamdoes work with many private equity and venture capital firms. Would this be doable? Or would 2 years of valuation be able to move into a 2nd year analyst role at a bank?

 

As easy as being from a target school and already in IB at a bulge bracket? Probably not as easy. But those valuations analyst roles are pretty good jobs and directly applicable to both worlds (IB/PE/VC). Also a lot easier to move lateral or back into IB if you are already in a major financial hub like SJ/SF. Good luck!

 
COYG:
starfox9090:

If you are interested in technology and banking, there is no better place perhaps in the world in my opinion. Congratulations on your opportunity.

Yeah, but I am not sure if the valuations analyst role will be able to easily move into IB or PE/Growth equity

You will find it nearly impossible to move from valuation to IB or PE in that market. You need something to trigger the switch (i.e. MBA). Particularly b/c you admitted your modeling skills aren't good.

 
Best Response
Bullet-Tooth Tony:
COYG:
starfox9090:

If you are interested in technology and banking, there is no better place perhaps in the world in my opinion. Congratulations on your opportunity.

Yeah, but I am not sure if the valuations analyst role will be able to easily move into IB or PE/Growth equity

You will find it nearly impossible to move from valuation to IB or PE in that market. You need something to trigger the switch (i.e. MBA). Particularly b/c you admitted your modeling skills aren't good.

Yeah, this was my main concern, I figured a straight shot from valuations wouldn't be very easy. I would probably stick with it for 2-4 years, then decide if I want to stay there, or explore b-school opportunities.

 

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