Entry-Level Positions For Aspiring Private Equity Professionals
Investment banking analyst programs are "an absolute great feeder" into private equity, but other entry-level options exist; Katharine suggests roles in consulting, strategy, or finance-focused communications, citing a journalist who transitioned into a similar role after covering investment banking and private equity.
Investment Banking, Private Equity, Business Development, Consulting, Finance
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Katharine (Katie) Melzer
Managing Director/Head of Business Development
Compass Diversified
University of Michigan
UCLA Anderson School of Management - MBA
Business Management & Admin
Finance (Banking, Fintech, Investing)
Business Strategy
None Applicable
Video Highlights
1. Investment banking analyst programs are a common entry path into private equity.
2. Business analysis, consulting, and finance-focused communications roles can also lead to careers in business development.
3. Strong interpersonal skills and networking are valuable assets in this field, regardless of the specific entry-level position.
Transcript
Q10: Entry-level positions
What intro-level positions are there in this field that an undergrad college student might consider? I think one of the biggest feeders into private equity is investment banking.
So, the majority of people go into an analyst program at an investment bank. After gaining two years of experience, they then transfer into private equity. I think that's an absolutely great feeder, but it's also the obvious one.
Within my role in business development, anything you're doing that involves analyzing businesses, like in a consulting firm, could be a good option. Even roles that focus on interpersonal skills and networking, perhaps in communications, could work if they're tied to finance.
For example, a communications role focused on finance companies could be very interesting. I know someone who was a journalist specializing in finance companies, particularly investment banking and private equity. She transitioned into a similar role from a journalism perspective.
So, any role involving strategy, consulting, or finance would be a great entry-level position for this field.