Can one lateral from mid-size VC to "large" VC?

I'm a VP at a mid-size VC (~$425mm AUM ). What's the best way for me to lateral to a larger ($1B+ AUM) fund?

Though my current firm is small, it has as a recognizable brand as a fintech sector specialist, and we regularly invest in rounds alongside the top names in Silicon Valley. My deal sheet includes ~10 investments into Seed to Series C deals. I would like to move to an institutional firm with more resources ($), a larger platform, and more opportunities for career growth. My background includes an MBA from Booth .

So far, it seems to me the following strategies are my best bet:

  1. Start socializing to my existing network of VC investors, most of whom are VP level, that I'm starting to think about my next move.
  2. Start outreach to head hunters and apply online as roles come available.

Is there anything else? I expect the strategies outlined above will take a long time to bear fruit, given where the market is today.

Also, I know there are risks to putting my name out in the market, e.g. it getting back to my firm. Any advice on how to navigate this?

This forum has been instrumental in getting me to where I am today. I would appreciate any advice from folks in the VC world who have made a similar switch!

Comments ( 12 )

20d
bddjfj1345 , what's your opinion? Comment below:

I'd also add building a sizeable social following on Linkedin, Twitter, Medium, Other Blog Sites. Build a name to go along with your experience and academic credentials.

I know its very difficult but I always love the grind stories of being apart of a small firm and growing it to >2B in AUM. Again, we all have our own goals and that is easier said than done.

  • Associate 2 in VC
20d

I am with you on the grind stories. I wonder if OP anticipates incoming fundraising difficulties at his current shop.

19d
VCapplesauce220 , what's your opinion? Comment below:

Interesting on that one point... I've never heard of VC's using marked up positions as AUM.

19d
VCMonkey01 , what's your opinion? Comment below:

AUM is always defined in terms of market value , and for VC firms, assets will generally get marked up to higher market values as companies raise at higher valuations.

It's all paper gains though.

Array
19d
AriGold93 , what's your opinion? Comment below:

Lol. Douchey response at 2am on Valentine's Day to someone genuinely asking for some new strategies to recruiting? You must be a real successful dude.You seem angry, hope you're able to work on yourself.

19d
VCMonkey01 , what's your opinion? Comment below:

Quo et quidem repudiandae voluptatem est. Rerum perspiciatis voluptatem et. Libero quam omnis fugiat. Autem occaecati ab qui omnis et repellat qui. Eos est maxime aut.

Array
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