Advice: Middle-Office to hedge fund Front Office?

Hi.

I have started to work on a major investment bank as a P&L Analyst (middle office) in an european city.

I had just finished my undergraduate degree, took a gap year, and I wanted to have some work experience before diving into a postgraduate degree so I applied for this job and was selected.

The thing is that my ambition is to be a trader/PM at a hedge fund.

What should my steps be to ensure that I can accomplish that ambition?

Is it possible to use this middle office role to get into a 1st year Analyst position or is it a bad thing that my first job is not in the front office?

Is it a bad starting point or can I really learn a lot about the industry from this job?

I would love some help and tips.

Thanks

 

I already started in the MO role. Are you saying i should get a front office job at a boutique or IB and spend some time there as a bridge between the MO and Hedge fund ou I should not take the MO (already started a few weeks back)?

How much time sould I spend in the MO like maximum? What about a masters or CFA before FO?

 

I agree with the above post, but if you do accept the MO offer start describing your responsibilities to yourself and others so when your asked about it in a FO role you’ll be prepared.

 

I already started in the MO role. Are you saying i should get a front office job at a boutique or IB and spend some time there as a bridge between the MO and Hedge fund ou I should not take the MO (already started a few weeks back)?

How much time sould I spend in the MO like maximum? What about a masters or CFA before FO?

 

Since you’ve already started take notice of what your doing practice describing your responsibilities so that when you do get a interview for a FO position you can describe it in a way that makes you sound more knowledgeable and desirable.

As far as staying,no more than 2 yrs. Actively look after a year under your belt and if you feel a CFA will help you then get one.

 
Most Helpful

i've seen people move from BO/MO to FO...here's what to do 1) assume you will be in your role for a year 2) do a really great job...have a positive attitude about everything. Never say "no problem" when asked to do something...just say "yes, i'll get right on that". The difference is attitude...when you say "no problem" it implies that there normally would indeed be a problem with you doing that work. 3) after 1 year in the MO, start looking for trading assistant positions. Still not an actual "trader" but its an assumption that trading assistants want to become traders within ~2 years...and if your desk likes you, they will help you get a shot an a junior trader 4) be the guy that everybody likes...not too douchy...not too preppy..strike the right balance. Don't judge anybody...just have an overall positive attitude...and take every opportunity you get to learn...learn about everything....you are above nothing. This attitude will serve you well...and people will remember you.

remember that everybody you interact with is a potential future boss/colleague...and act accordingly.

 

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