Expert Tips
MOVING TO A CREDIT FUND
We asked Senior Consultant, Harry Chapman at Stem7 Executive Search for his expert tips to move to a highly ranked Credit Fund.
EXPERT TIPS TO MOVE TO A HIGHLY RANKED CREDIT FUND
Prepare for each process as it is extremely competitive
Preparation is key to success. From speaking about your professional background in detail (day to day, specific role in deals & motivations for looking at new roles) to practicing case study material (modelling & presentations back to panel). You must know the fund well and be specific about why you think you can make a difference.
Know what is important to you
Are you looking for the Credit Fund that will pay the most or are you looking for a platform that will give you hands on experience and allow you to grow. There will often be a trade off to any move. Be clear on what you are prioritising at this stage in your career growth.
Time of exit
Think about when you want to begin your search to tie in with bonus payments / level of experience. The level we see most traction at as a firm is Senior Analyst – Junior Associate. A search on average takes 9-12 months to complete. At Analyst / Associate level we rarely see firms paying a sign on bonus to cover walking away from a bonus.
Pick the right firm
Make sure you get a holistic view of the market. Don’t jump for the first opportunity that comes across your desk. Be selective, but open to alternate credit strategies.
Explore the market by going to meet the credit funds.
Make sure your CV is constructed professionally
Your CV should have enough detail on your day-to-day and responsibilities, ideally 3 to 5 detailed bullet points. It should also have demonstrable experience of selected transactions, ideally 5 to 8 that you have worked on that you are happy to speak about in first round interviews.
Article written by
Harry Chapman
Senior Consultant
Credit
Harry Chapman works with the top European Credit Funds and introduces exceptional investment banking talent to them who are now significantly contributing to their growth.