Seeking Advice: Headhunter Opportunity as Fund Accountant in PE
Hello everyone,
I’m reaching out to the sleepless community for some insights and guidance. Recently, a headhunter contacted me with an opportunity for a fund accountant position at a private equity firm with over £3 billion in gross assets. I’ve been working in Audit for two busy seasons and am currently pursuing my ACA qualification.
Here’s a bit more detail: I asked the headhunter for a visa sponsorship guarantee (since I’m here on a visa) and requested the ability to continue my ACA studies until completion. He agreed and suggested we have a call, which we scheduled within 24 hours. The role requires proficiency in either French or German, and I’m comfortable with one of these languages due to my high school studies, as well as using it in a professional context.
During our conversation, I was encouraged to speak in my second language because he wasn’t fluent in English. The discussion went well, and I expressed my interest in transitioning away from Audit for better opportunities. Although I struggled with some vocabulary, I assured him I’ve been working with native speakers for two years, and he felt confident that my language skills would improve with practice.
I inquired about the role expectations for the first 6 to 12 months, and he clarified that it’s a junior position where I will receive guidance. He also asked about the costs associated with completing my remaining six ACA exams (including the case study), which I didn’t have the specific figure for at the time but promised to follow up via email.
I hold an MSc in Accounting & finance from LSE and a BSc in Accounting & finance from another business school in London, which has given me significant exemptions. He seemed impressed with my academic background and advised me to highlight it in my follow-up email.
As an MD at a consulting firm, he began discussing my notice period. I’d like to become part-qualified before making the switch (I’m expected to sit for two exams in June and resit one in September). My initial attempt at the BPT exam didn’t go as planned due to personal circumstances.
I apologize for the lengthy message, but I’m counting on this community for your valuable advice. The role offers a salary of £50,000 – £60,000, which is significantly higher than my current position in Audit.
Thank you for your thoughts!
One response
It sounds like you’re at a significant crossroads in your career, and it’s great that you’re actively exploring new opportunities. Here are some points to consider as you evaluate this offer:
Career Progression: Transitioning from Audit to a fund accountant role in private equity can provide valuable experience and different skill sets. If you’re looking for a change from Audit and want to broaden your expertise, this could be a smart move.
Financial Consideration: A salary of £50-60k is quite attractive compared to typical Audit roles, especially being in London. This could signal a better work-life balance and compensation, but it’s important to weigh it against your long-term career goals and the stability of the sector.
Language Skills: Since the role requires proficiency in a second language, your background could be beneficial. Your willingness to practice and improve your language skills shows initiative, which is crucial for success in this new environment.
ACA Qualification: Becoming part qualified before making the switch is a sensible strategy. It not only enhances your qualifications but might also make you more competitive in the job market. Ensure that your potential employer is supportive of your ACA completion, as indicated by the headhunter.
Employer Support: Inquire further into how the company supports professional development, especially for employees pursuing qualifications like the ACA. This could impact your ability to balance work and study more effectively.
Notice Period: Consider your current employer’s policies on the notice period and see if there’s flexibility, especially if you’re looking to advance your qualifications before making the switch.
Long-term Goals: Reflect on your long-term career goals. Will moving to a fund accountant role align with where you see yourself in five or ten years? Do you have interest in private equity, or are you considering this role just as a stepping stone?
Company Culture and Stability: Research the company’s culture, values, and stability in the private equity market. Speaking to current or past employees could provide insight into what it’s truly like to work there.
Overall, it sounds like an exciting opportunity, and if it aligns with your career goals and supports your personal and professional development, it could be worth pursuing further. Good luck!