Seeking Advice regarding LO AM Equity Research career progession

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some suggestions and insights for your situation:

Positioning Yourself for Future Opportunities:

1. CFA Designation:

   • Pursuing the CFA designation is a strong move. It will enhance your credibility and knowledge base, making you more attractive to both your current firm and potential future employers.

2. Networking:

   • Build and maintain a robust professional network. Attend industry conferences, join relevant professional groups, and connect with alumni from your school who are in the industry.

3. Performance and Visibility:

   • Focus on delivering strong performance and making your contributions visible. Ensure that your work is recognized by senior analysts and portfolio managers.

4. Skill Development:

   • Continuously develop your skills, particularly in financial modeling, valuation, and investment analysis. Consider taking additional courses or certifications if they align with your career goals.

5. Internal Mobility:

   • Express your interest in long-term growth within the firm to your managers. Seek feedback regularly and ask for opportunities to take on more responsibility.

6. Exploring Other Opportunities:

   • While you aim to stay within the same firm, keep an eye on opportunities at other firms, especially those in L/S equity or tier 1 AM firms like Wellington. Having a few years of buy-side ER experience will make you a competitive candidate.

Perception of LO Equity Research Roles:

• Comparison to SS ER and IB:

  • Sell-Side Equity Research (SS ER): Often seen as a stepping stone to buy-side roles. SS ER analysts typically have more client interaction and are involved in marketing their research, which can be seen as a valuable skill set.
  • Investment Banking (IB): IB roles are often perceived as more prestigious due to the high-profile nature of the deals and the rigorous selection process. IB experience is also highly transferable to various finance roles, including private equity and corporate finance.

• Value of LO Equity Research:

  • Despite the perception, LO Equity Research roles are highly valuable. Producing investment ideas with tangible results and actual capital deployment is a significant responsibility. The skills and experience gained in LO ER are directly applicable to many high-level finance roles.

Summary:

• Focus on obtaining your CFA designation, networking, and delivering strong performance.
• Develop your skills continuously and express your interest in long-term growth within your firm.
• Keep an eye on opportunities at other firms, especially in L/S equity or tier 1 AM firms.
• Understand that while LO ER roles may be perceived differently, they hold substantial value and can lead to significant career opportunities.

By following these steps, you can better position yourself for future success in the competitive field of equity research.

Sources: Life decisions...buy-side equity analyst, Incoming Buyside Equity Analyst - Seeking Advice, Advice on career and the switch into investment banking, Need career advice.. PLEASE help, Citi, Lazard, Jefferies, Fidelity, Morgan Stanley