Navigate Private Equity Career: Operations to Deal Team Transition

An investment analyst in a Fund of Funds (FoF) Private Equity role, 4 months in with 1 YOE, is concerned about lacking "deal exposure" and being skewed towards "investment operations." This presents a critical career development opportunity within a highly competitive field. The advice should focus on strategies to gain deal exposure (e.g., networking internally, volunteering for deal-related tasks, demonstrating analytical prowess on projects, seeking mentorship). It's also vital to understand the distinct career trajectories for both operations-focused and deal-focused roles within PE, and to identify potential lateral moves or future roles if direct deal exposure isn't feasible in their current fund (e.g., moving to a traditional direct PE fund, investment banking, corporate development). Developing strong financial modeling, due diligence, and valuation skills is crucial. Expected benefits are a clearer, more strategic career path and potentially higher earning potential associated with deal-oriented investment roles.