Is this true?
Been talking to some sell-side equity research teams and was told by someone in HR that joining one of the teams would mean doing a full career reset as if I just came out of undergrad. I have 5 years of finance experience, currently work in PE, and have a H/S/W MBA. Is that accurate that equity research would generally not credit any work experience unless it was only in equity research?
Based on the most helpful WSO content, it's not entirely accurate that equity research would completely disregard your prior experience. While sell-side equity research roles often have a structured hierarchy and may place a premium on direct ER experience, your background in private equity, finance, and an H/S/W MBA would still hold significant value.
Your PE experience demonstrates strong analytical skills, financial modeling, and industry knowledge, which are highly transferable to equity research. However, you might need to start at a slightly lower level than your current seniority, as ER teams often prioritize specific skill sets like writing research reports, building detailed company models, and client interaction experience.
It’s worth noting that some professionals have successfully transitioned from PE or other finance roles into ER without starting from scratch. Networking and effectively positioning your experience during interviews can help mitigate this "reset" perception.
Sources: Breaking into buy-side equity research - my experience, Breaking into buy-side equity research - my experience, Can someone please explain this to me?, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/investment-banking/breaking-into-private-equity-from-banking?customgpt=1, Future of Equity Research - 12+ Months into MIFID II
Probably not true in general, but if HR said it then it might be what they're intending to do in your case. I'd talk to the hiring analyst and research management about it, since obviously that would be unacceptable from your point of view.
Simple don’t take it bro… Goodluck lol
Sounds inaccurate. MBAs normally come in at associate level, even if not through the official recruiting pipeline.
The 5 YOE won't count for as much as you think though because it's just different jobs.
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