The pathway
How you actually get there, here
How you become one varies far more by country than what one does. This is the UK route. Most people take one of these ways in; the right one depends on where you're starting from.
- 1
From Vice President, Investments (L5)
3-5 years as a high-performing VP.Skills to master
- Transition from championing individual deals to shaping a broader portfolio strategy, leading multiple teams, and managing significant P&L. Developing board-level presence and investor relations skills are critical.
You're ready to move on when
- Consistent outperformance on individual deal sourcing and execution.
- Demonstrated ability to mentor and develop junior VPs and Associates.
- Proven capability to lead complex workstreams and influence senior stakeholders.
- Taking initiative on strategic firm-wide projects beyond your immediate deal flow.
- 2
From Investment Banking Managing Director (MD)
Typically 2-4 years post-MD promotion, or a lateral move.Skills to master
- Transition from advisory/transaction execution to principal investing and long-term portfolio management. This means shifting from deal origination and closing to capital allocation, value creation, and active board participation. Understanding the 'buy-side' mentality is key.
You're ready to move on when
- A strong track record of originating and executing complex M&A or financing deals.
- Deep sector expertise and a robust network of corporate relationships.
- Demonstrated ability to build and lead high-performing deal teams.
- A genuine passion for long-term value creation, not just transaction fees.
- 3
From Senior Portfolio Manager (Hedge Fund/Asset Management)
3-5 years in a senior PM role, managing significant AUM.Skills to master
- Adapting to the illiquidity and longer holding periods of private investments (if applicable). Developing expertise in direct deal execution, due diligence, and active board governance, which differs from public market trading. It's a shift from relative value to absolute value creation.
You're ready to move on when
- Consistent outperformance of benchmarks with a strong risk-adjusted return profile.
- Experience in managing a substantial book of business and client relationships.
- A disciplined investment process and ability to articulate a clear investment philosophy.
- Demonstrated leadership in managing a team of analysts/traders.