Choosing a career path in finance, particularly in private equity, demands more than just a strong academic background — it requires a blend of humility, commitment, and a strategic approach to relationship-building. The courses offered by EDHEC Business School support students in navigating this demanding but rewarding field.
Choosing a career path in finance, particularly in private equity (PE), demands more than simply a strong academic background. It requires a blend of humility, commitment, and a strategic approach to relationship-building. Once considered an exclusive and elitist industry, private equity now opens its doors to those ready to face real-world challenges.
Understanding the industry’s evolving dynamics and finding the right educational foundation is essential for aspiring professionals. The master’s courses offered by EDHEC Business School help students navigate this demanding yet rewarding field.
EDHEC Business School has campuses in various cities in France, such as Nice, Lille, and Paris. It also has global campuses in London, the UK, and Singapore, as well as fully online programs. The various campus locations and course styles ensure students can choose the program that best fits their needs. The school intertwines a global focus and current industry trends into its education ethos, ensuring graduates are well-prepared to enter a fast-paced and dynamic field like finance.
Let’s explore how to pursue a career in finance, specifically private equity, and how to shape your path to lasting success.
There are many motivators to delve into the world of private equity. Benoit Vauchy, a Partner at Permira and a graduate of the EDHEC Business School, describes the hook that keeps him devoted to his work.
He says, “What keeps us there is the love of the job, discovering a new business, building a rapport and a relationship with great people, [and] getting the opportunity to close a deal.” (01:28)
But that’s not all. Private equity requires hard work, strategic thinking, and making tough calls. Mr. Vauchy reflects that private equity is a compelling field for those eager to see their hard work pay off.
Competition between private equity firms is increasing as firms search for higher yields in a globalized industry. There is a strong need for creativity within private equity, and this is where postgraduate students can make all the difference. The private equity sector is teeming with opportunities to learn and give back to the finance industry.
You’ve got your eye set on private equity; now it’s time to determine your next move. EDHEC Business School appeals to many postgraduate students globally who are looking to elevate their careers.
EDHEC Business School ranks as the #7 Business School in Europe and the #6 Master’s in Finance worldwide. Its programs’ high educational standards and prestige set it apart from other schools with similar programs.
EDHEC Business School’s master’s in finance degrees are designed to meet ongoing industry changes, giving students an advantage in a rapidly changing field. EDHEC focuses on providing students with a broad and comprehensive skillset to approach ongoing changes confidently.
Networking is highly valued in a finance-oriented career but can be daunting when starting out. At EDHEC, students can leverage the university’s network to build advantageous professional connections. The community at EDHEC Business School includes students, alumni, researchers, professors, partners, institutions, and career service staff. It offers students the chance to be part of an engaged and dynamic lifelong community of like-minded individuals.
Another advantage is the global perspective offered at EDHEC Business School. Rooted in five different locations globally, it has campuses established in Lille, Nice, Paris, London, and Singapore. International perspectives are intertwined in every aspect of the student experience, helping students to become globally-minded leaders.
As Mr. Vauchy reflects, “When I think about where I am today, yes, it’s dependent on what I did myself, but it’s [also] dependent on people I met, mentors I’ve come across, and obviously having had a great education at a school.” (00:36)
“Finding the right program and school for you is crucial. Completing an excellent education, meeting the right mentors, and growing your network lays the foundation for your long-term career success in the finance sector,” he continues.
There’s no one set pathway for what a finance student can pursue at EDHEC Business School. They offer five MSc Finance programs and one Master in Management (MiM) ‒ Finance track, which ranks as #4 MiM worldwide in the Financial Times Masters in Management 2024 ranking. There are many courses to choose from to find the best fit for your interests and career goals.
Mr. Vauchy explains, “There are many roads to private equity…this is an industry that has grown so much and needs more talent diversity. That really gives an opportunity for people to make their own way.” (00:02)
Do you want to work in the financial or advisory services sector as an auditor or financial controller? Are you interested in helping international organizations make sound financial decisions? Explore the MSc in Accounting & Finance. Curious about pursuing a career in trading, asset & risk management, or alternative investments? Gain analytical tools and prepare for an international career in financial markets with the MSc in Financial Engineering.
If you want to venture into international banking, global trade, and cross-border investment, explore the MSc in International Finance. For students who are passionate about sustainability, they offer an MSc in Climate Change & Sustainable Finance. This dual-degree program gives students the skillset they need to tackle the challenge of a low-carbon economy and the energy transition.
If investment banking, private equity, corporate banking, or financial advisory services pique your interest, the MSc in Corporate Finance and Banking could be a suitable fit for you. Private Equity is offered as a possible elective under this degree.
Looking for something broader? The Master in Management – Finance track offers a 360° view of finance, offering a comprehensive understanding of the finance industry. This helps graduates to get a wide array of jobs in the finance industry.
EDHEC Business School offers a range of master’s programs in finance, ensuring there is a suitable course for everyone. Regardless of where your passions lie, each program will provide comprehensive knowledge, tools, and skills to excel in your future finance career.
Private equity is more than crunching numbers—it’s about mastering strategy, building relationships, and staying humble when plans go sideways. It’s a field where even the best ideas are constantly tested against unpredictable markets, teaching humility and resilience along the way.
Mr. Vauchy notes, “This job will teach you humility if you don’t have it….You’ll get humility from actually meeting some really, really bright people.” (00:49)
Mr. Vauchy further explains that while this career path can be demanding, the payoffs are numerous in the long run. He observes, “When you have real success, sometimes you grow a business three-fold, four-fold… you turn back five or ten years later, and it’s a transformed business, it’s much bigger. The pride and the personal satisfaction that you get from that, it’s just very unique.” (01:44)
Private equity offers a thrilling blend of challenge and reward for postgraduate students who are passionate about finance and eager to connect with industry leaders.
EDHEC Business School excels at preparing students for this dynamic environment, offering the chance to learn from seasoned professionals and build lasting global connections. With its programs tailored to the shifting tides of global finance, EDHEC Business School teaches students to embrace humility and learn from setbacks.
Navigating a career in private equity is about playing the long game and staying grounded, no matter how high you climb. EDHEC Business School’s focus on developing well-rounded, humble leaders sets its graduates apart in a fast-paced and competitive field. For those ready to commit to continuous learning, build meaningful networks, and embrace humility, the journey into private equity is not only achievable but full of potential for long-term success.
Discover more about EDHEC Business School, and contact one of the EDHEC ambassadors to learn about their study experience.
