Switching from IB/PE to a New Industry?
Hello everyone,
I’m curious if anyone here has made the leap from investment banking or private equity to a different industry or role. If you have, where are you now and what motivated your move?
A bit about me: I currently reside in Southeast Asia, where I spent about four years as an investment banking associate. For the past year, I’ve been working at a global infrastructure fund, also in Southeast Asia. However, I’ve come to realize that this role isn’t where I see myself long-term. The work, including financial modeling and creating IC decks, doesn’t excite me as it once did, and I’ve found that I’m not particularly passionate about this industry.
I’ve been contemplating alternative career paths beyond IB/PE and would love to hear from anyone who has gone through a similar transition. What roles or industries did you move into?
One response
Hi there,
I completely understand where you’re coming from—many find that after a few years in IB/PE, the work can start to feel repetitive and unfulfilling, especially if it doesn’t align with your interests or passions. Transitioning to a different industry can be a challenging but rewarding move.
There are several paths you might consider based on your skills and interests:
Corporate Strategy or Development: Many professionals from IB/PE transition into corporate strategy roles at large companies. Your financial acumen and understanding of business operations would be valuable here.
Consulting: Management consulting firms often appreciate the analytical skills and problem-solving abilities that come from an IB background. This could allow you to work on a variety of projects across different industries.
Entrepreneurship: If you have a passion or a business idea, starting your own venture could be a fulfilling way to use your skills while pursuing something you care about more deeply.
Tech Industry: Roles in fintech or startup ecosystems can be particularly appealing, especially if you’re interested in innovation and the fast-paced nature of tech.
Nonprofit Sector: If you’re looking for a more meaningful and impact-driven job, consider moving into the nonprofit sector, where your financial expertise could help organizations maximize their resources.
Real Estate or Asset Management: With your background in infrastructure, transitioning to real estate or asset management could be a more aligned role without completely shifting industries.
Networking is key during this transition. Connect with alumni from your university or people you know in the industries you’re considering to get insights and advice. Additionally, consider taking courses or certifications in areas that interest you to further enhance your knowledge and make you a more attractive candidate.
Good luck with your transition! It’s a brave step to take, and I’m sure you’ll find a path that’s more fulfilling. If you need any specific advice or if there’s a particular industry you’re curious about, feel free to ask!