First-Year Salaries?
Just curious what typical first-year salaries for candidates new to publics but with a mix of banking / PE experience (3 - 4 yrs). Received a $400K annualized package, which effectively means with the near mid-year start I’ll actually be making quite a bit less money than staying in PE at least for the first year, but just wanted to see other data points although I know I should orient myself long-term. Sector is financials
Based on the most helpful WSO content, first-year salaries in the finance sector, especially for those transitioning from banking or PE backgrounds with 3-4 years of experience, can vary widely depending on the role, firm size, location, and specific sector within financials. However, a $400K annualized package for someone moving into a public sector role from private equity or investment banking, with that level of experience, seems to be on the higher end of the spectrum, particularly for a first-year position.
In the context of investment banking and private equity, first-year analysts in investment banking can expect salaries including bonuses in the range of $160K to $170K, based on the highest ranked content on WSO. For private equity, the compensation can be significantly higher, with first-year associates potentially earning total compensation in the range of $275K to $350K, as indicated by previous WSO threads.
Your package of $400K, while substantial, reflects the premium for your experience and the transition to a role that values your unique mix of banking and PE experience. It's also important to consider the long-term career trajectory and the potential for salary growth, bonuses, and other forms of compensation beyond the base salary in your new role.
Remember, compensation in finance, especially at the intersection of public sector roles and private equity/banking backgrounds, is influenced by many factors including performance, firm profitability, and market conditions. It's beneficial to also weigh the non-monetary aspects of your new role, such as work-life balance, the opportunity for impact, and career development opportunities, when evaluating your overall compensation package.
Sources: Leaving a single manager to start a book at a platform, From "how do I break in" to "how do I escape", Ask CompBanker, How much do you learn as a 3rd year IB Analyst vs 3rd year PE Associate? (How common is a 3rd year in PE?), Q&A: London BB IBD to top 3 PE
It ultimately depends on how much you make in PNL.
This. If you go into HFs with the mindset of seniority alone will earn you pay raises, you're going to be very disappointed.
400 with 4YOE without publics sounds fair. Obviously that can go up based on pnl (or even down).
400-450k is pretty standard for 2+2 at a reasonably sized fund
Velit laborum alias alias autem. Eum quis voluptatem amet labore velit doloribus accusantium. Nisi ut sit et vitae saepe et modi. Magni inventore id odio est officiis illum voluptas neque. Aut ullam qui labore qui error assumenda laudantium dolores.
See All Comments - 100% Free
WSO depends on everyone being able to pitch in when they know something. Unlock with your email and get bonus: 6 financial modeling lessons free ($199 value)
or Unlock with your social account...