Lazard vs Blackstone M&A
(Senior Baboon, 188
Points)
on 10/14/09 at 8:31pm
How would you guys compare FT positions at Lazard and Blackstone M&A in terms of reputation/prestige, PE exit ops, and quality of deal experience? The Lazard offer is generalist, so the restructuring group is a possibility. Wasserstein's sad absence could also be something to think about...





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I'd really appreciate any thoughts you guys might have. Thanks for the help.
In terms of prestige and
In terms of prestige and exit ops, both of these firms are top-notch from the analyst perspective. It really should come down to your feelings towards the people you met at both places and the culture in your situation.
I would add however, that if you're still completely indifferent between the two, the Lazard offer being for both M&A and restructuring is attractive because of that. Lazard is a top restructuring shop, and being able to work on both M&A and restructuring mandates can only add to your marketability to the buyside.
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Both are top shops. Personally, I prefer BX. You're not really going to go wrong here.
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Last I heard Lazard split up
Last I heard Lazard split up the analysts into M&A and Restructuring - do you really get to work on both if you go there?
Regardless of which firm you
Regardless of which firm you go to, you will get exposure to both restructuring and M&A. As bkm125 said, you will be placed into either M&A or restructuring and the majority of your work will be tied to the group; however, you will also get to see the other side on a number of projects.
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Industry Generalist
I was told from Lazard that you will be placed into an industry group after training. At BX M&A, you will be an industry generalist for your two years, which goes a long way in my books. I've been told that you should stay a generalist as long as possible...it only makes yourself more marketable. Aside from a Energy sub-section of BX M&A, all analysts are generalists. Furthermore, they have been working extensively with the restr/reorg group on distressed M&A lately.
I wonder how much the CEO uncertainty will affect Lazard...
could be something to consider. I wish I had heard something from someone high up on the street who would have a real insight into where the firm may be headed.