Apollo FIG

Based on the highest ranked content on WSO and insights from various threads, it's clear that the culture and workload at Apollo, including potentially its Financial Institutions Group (FIG), are known to be quite demanding. While the specific details about Apollo's FIG team aren't directly mentioned in the context provided, we can infer some insights based on the overall culture at Apollo as described:

1. Demanding Workload: Apollo is known for its rigorous workload across the board. Associates often face long hours, with expectations to forgo personal time and sleep to meet work demands. This intense culture likely extends to the FIG team as well, given the firm's overall approach to work.

2. High Expectations at Mid/Principal Level: The path to power within Apollo is described as being rooted solely in making money for the firm, which suggests that mid-level professionals like Principals are under significant pressure to perform. This environment is likely to be as challenging, if not more, in specialized groups like FIG due to the complex nature of financial institutions.

3. Cultural Revamp Efforts: Apollo has been making efforts to revamp its recruiting and soften its culture, which might impact the FIG team as well. However, changing a deeply ingrained culture is challenging, and it's uncertain how quickly or effectively these changes will permeate specialized groups within the firm.

4. Varied Experiences: While the firm has a reputation for a tough working environment, experiences can vary significantly depending on the team. Some Principals and partners are noted to be quite decent to work with. If a professional in the FIG team aligns with supportive higher-ups, their experience could be more positive.

5. Retention and Promotion: Despite the challenging environment, Apollo has a track record of retaining associates who then move on to Principal and Partner levels. This suggests that for those who can navigate the firm's culture and demands, there are opportunities for advancement, potentially within the FIG team as well.

In summary, while specific insights into Apollo's FIG team at the mid/principal level are not provided in the context, the overall demanding and high-pressure culture of Apollo likely applies. However, individual experiences can vary, and there are opportunities for growth and advancement for those who thrive in such an environment.

Sources: Apollo is revamping recruiting and softening its culture. Here's a look., More negative press on Apollo, More negative press on Apollo, Is Apollo that bad?, Apollo Hybrid Value; any details?

Based on the most helpful WSO content, it's clear that experiences at Apollo can vary significantly across different teams and levels, including those within the Financial Institutions Group (FIG). While specific insights into the FIG team at the mid/principal level aren't directly provided in the context, we can infer some general expectations based on the overall culture and practices at Apollo as described:

1. Work Intensity and Expectations: Apollo is known for its demanding work environment, with high expectations for performance across all levels. This intensity likely extends to the FIG team as well, where mid-level professionals such as principals are expected to manage significant responsibilities, deal complexities, and potentially long hours.

2. Culture and Environment: The context suggests that Apollo's culture can be challenging, with a significant power divide between associates and higher ranks. While there are decent principals and partners, the environment can be tough, especially for those not aligned with the right teams. This could imply that mid/principal level professionals in FIG need to navigate these dynamics carefully, maintaining strong performance while managing relationships with both higher-ups and their teams.

3. Opportunities and Rewards: Despite the demanding environment, Apollo offers substantial rewards for those who thrive, particularly at the principal and partner levels. Success in the FIG team at these levels likely comes with significant financial and professional rewards, reflecting the firm's performance-oriented culture.

4. Work-Life Balance: The context indicates a challenging work-life balance across the firm, with instances of extreme work hours and high stress. Mid-level professionals in FIG should be prepared for periods of intense work, especially during critical deal phases.

5. Cultural Shifts: There's mention of Apollo attempting to revamp recruiting and soften its culture. While it's unclear how these changes are impacting the FIG team specifically, mid/principal level professionals might experience or contribute to evolving dynamics within the team and firm.

In summary, while direct insights into the FIG team at the mid/principal level are not provided, the overall descriptions of Apollo's culture, expectations, and environment suggest a challenging yet potentially rewarding experience for those in such roles. Success likely requires a combination of technical skill, resilience, and the ability to navigate complex internal dynamics.

Sources: Apollo is revamping recruiting and softening its culture. Here's a look., More negative press on Apollo, More negative press on Apollo, Is Apollo that bad?, Apollo Hybrid Value; any details?