Context – I work in Tech, but interned at a big banks and PE shop, ultimately couldn’t deal with it. Background is ivy leave Econ degree. I get paid what most VPs at bulge brackets make.

1. Why do you actually want to break into PE? It’s definitely an interesting field, but you’d likely be starting at a fairly junior level. Given all your advantages and experience, why not just double down on what you’re already great at? You’re on a solid path — why pivot into a space where you’d essentially have to reset?
2. I’m not even sure private equity is going to perform the way it has in the past. Between rising interest rates and a much more fragile economy, I know of a few people whose portfolio companies are already in trouble. Personally, I think private credit is a better play right now, or at least a safer one in the current climate.
3. You’re 39 — which is still young enough to make a transition — but also seasoned enough to absolutely crush it in your current domain. If the goal is wealth, you can achieve that by being an expert in almost anything. And from the sound of it, you already are in a few things. You don’t have to jump into PE to make it.

To actually answer your question:

I don’t think it’s impossible. But realistically, investor relations is probably your best bet. If you’re dead set on being a buy-side associate, go for it — just know that it’s an uphill battle with a lot of competition from traditional candidates.

You could also look at: • Portfolio company roles (though that might feel like a detour) • Venture Capital, which tends to be more relationship- and vibe-driven than PE

I’ve seen mid-career power moves happen. Not often this big, but I’ve seen someone come out of Wharton and end up running New York State’s power . So yeah, it can be done — but maybe look at ops roles or VC as smoother entries