Advice needed with landing a role in IB
Hi,
I am based in the UK and graduated last May and am having a hard time getting an offer from investment banks due to having no prior IB internships (diagnosed with lymphoma during my uni period). Since I have been applying from place to place, I stumbled upon a client service role at a large wealth management and after doing some digging noticed that maybe after spending 2-years in this role + attaining an MBA, I could potentially transition to IB.
Some additional bits: graduated w/ first class from non-target, have 1yr experience in FP&A role and am comfortable with modelling in excel since during my time at the hospital went through WSP course.
What are my chances of exiting to IB? Is this viable? What else can I do?
Hey there, Incoming Monkey!
First off, kudos to you for your resilience and determination. Battling lymphoma and still pushing forward with your career goals is truly commendable. Now, let's swing into your situation:
Non-target to IB: It's a tougher climb, but not impossible. Your first-class degree is a shiny banana in your favor. It shows you've got the brains to handle the analytical side of IB.
FP&A Experience: This is relevant, especially since you're comfortable with financial modeling. It's a skill that IB firms value highly.
Client Service Role: It's not a direct path to IB, but it can be a strategic move. You'll develop client-facing skills and understand the wealth management landscape, which can be beneficial in IB, particularly in areas like client advisory.
MBA Route: An MBA can be a great vine to swing on for a career transition. Aim for a program that has a strong track record of placing graduates into investment banking roles. It's also a prime time for networking and securing internships.
Networking: Start building relationships with professionals in the industry. Use your story and your unique background to stand out. Networking can often open doors that traditional applications can't.
Additional Prep: Consider continuing to hone your technical skills. Maybe take a look at the WSO Networking Guide or the Investment Banking Prep Pack to sharpen your edge.
Health Narrative: Your journey with lymphoma can be a powerful part of your story. It demonstrates resilience, a trait that's highly respected in the high-pressure world of IB.
In summary, your chances of exiting to IB are definitely there. It's a viable path, but it will require strategic positioning, networking, and possibly further education. Keep learning, keep connecting, and use your unique story to your advantage.
Remember, every monkey's journey is different, but with the right strategy, you can make it to the top of the jungle. Keep swinging!
Sources: Transitioning from tech to a serious finance job (yes, you read that right), The Allure of Investment Banking, Life after Investment Banking, A Guide for Switching From Commercial Banking to Investment Banking, Checking in 6 years later [IB to MBB transition]
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