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Investment

How To Get an Investment Job In Private Equity

6 min read

Key takeaways
01

Financial modelling is the single most important skill for private equity investment roles.

02
M&A at a respected investment bank is the standard route in; some firms hire only from this background.
03
Internships are viewed by most firms as an essential extension of your education.
04
PE firms rarely advertise openings; specialist recruiters are often the way in.
Private equity firms raise equity from investors and use that money to acquire private companies. They improve the way the company operates to sell it on or float it on the stock market. Those fortunate enough to get work in private equity usually begin by becoming a private equity associate.

To be successful in this field, you must have strong financial acumen, excellent communication skills, and the ability to think strategically. But there is one specialism that outweighs them all: financial modelling. If you don’t have it, you need to find a way to get it.

Step 1: Education

The first step is a bachelor’s degree in a relevant, highly numerate field like Finance or Economics from a top university. Exceptional academics are par for the course. Whilst the CFA isn’t necessary for most types of private equity investment, it is advisable if you are interested in the debt side.

Step 2: Gain Work Experience

Internships are viewed by most firms as an essential extension to your education. Securing good internships during or straight after your degree will provide a huge boost to your chances.
M&A in a respected Investment Bank is always a popular choice. Some firms will only hire from this area.

Whilst private equity firms differ in the backgrounds they like to hire from, M&A in a respected Investment Bank is the standard route. Other options include Transaction Services or Corporate Finance with a consulting firm, though these are less universally appealing to PE firms.

Step 3: Network

Networking can play a huge role. Attending conferences and building relationships with alumni and colleagues can be a great way to gain insight into the industry and uncover opportunities.

Step 4: Pursue Opportunities

Private equity employers rarely post job openings online. This is the time to contact private equity recruiters who specialise in the industry. We have an eclectic client base from niche boutique specialists to diversified multi-fund investment firms, and are extremely well placed to put you forward if we think you have the potential to be a good fit.
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