Posted in: Experienced, Alternative routes in 18 January 2012 1 answer
dyylan

Question: What would be my best approach in moving into M&A/PE

Background:
For the first year of my career I worked for the World Bank in a legal strategy function, and now for the past 2 years I’v work for a large consultancy in a risk/strategy role. My experience has been around Operating Models, growth strategies and other consultant roles across brand named IB/Retail Banks/Investment Houses.
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Situation: I’m grossly underpaid for the hours and effort I put in at the career grade I’m at (thats my mistake for taking a lower position and missing promotion deadlines), I also dont like the the type of work my firm does. I’d like to move into a career that I enjoy, based on my experience, I enjoy restructuring operating models of companies (not capital restructuring – my firm doesnt do that, I wish it did).

I’d like to move into a job that allows me to learn more about financial restructuring, Operating model due dilegence work, Commercial due dilgence the type of work a M&A/PE firm would do or a niche consultancy may do.
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Problem: I hold a law degree, which has opened a lot of doors but at the same time due to not being numerate on paper I’ve been rejected for my dream jobs. Although my work experience does prove I can work with numbers.
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Question: Would I be right in going back to school and getting a Msc in Corporate Finance/other finance related masters. Taking into account the economic and socio-economic landscape of the City right now – would I be setting myself up for failure?
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*note I have previously intereviewed for front office positions, the general consenus was I didnt have a numerate background, i’m also 25 (too old to move?)

Answers (1)

  1. It’s very, very difficult to get into PE: most big PE funds will only hire top junior corporate financiers from top banks, so as things stand this will be a challenge. Your best bet will therefore be to attempt getting into M&A. The standard route into this for someone in your situation would be to study an MBA at a top business school (London Business School, INSEAD or one of the US schools). Failing that, if you want to get into restructuring, there are always back routes in – try one of the restructuring boutiques rather than a big house. Or try a Big Four accounting firm – it would also help if you had an ACA, although this might be a step back in your career now. Personally, I’d recommend against an MSc in corporate finance/finance – MScs are typically better respected in sales/trading positions.