Who would you hire out of these two?

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here's how you might evaluate these two candidates:

1. Former Bulge Bracket ER Analyst with Startup Experience:

   • Pros: The bulge bracket experience is highly regarded, even if it was only for 6 months. Starting and running a startup for 4 years demonstrates entrepreneurial skills, leadership, and resilience. This candidate likely has a broader skill set, including strategic thinking and problem-solving, which could be valuable in equity research or other finance roles.
   • Cons: The 4-year gap from traditional finance might raise concerns about their current technical skills and market knowledge. You’d need to assess how well they’ve kept up with industry trends and whether they can quickly adapt back to a structured finance environment.

2. MM ER Summer Analyst Without a Return Offer:

   • Pros: Recent experience in equity research at a middle-market firm suggests they are familiar with the current industry environment and technical requirements. They might also be more immediately ready to contribute in a traditional ER role.
   • Cons: Not receiving a return offer could be a red flag, depending on the reason. It’s essential to understand whether this was due to performance, cultural fit, or external factors like limited headcount.

Decision Factors:

• If you value entrepreneurial experience and broader skills, the former bulge bracket analyst with startup experience might be the better choice, provided they can demonstrate up-to-date technical knowledge and a willingness to transition back into finance.
• If you prioritize recent and relevant ER experience, the MM ER summer analyst could be a safer bet, but you’d need to dig into why they didn’t secure a return offer.

Ultimately, the decision depends on the specific needs of the role and how well each candidate aligns with those requirements.

Sources: Criteria for Choosing Summer Analysts after Superday, David and Goliath: The Boutique and The Bulge Bracket, Eight Habits of Top Bucket IBD Summers, Q&A: Bulge Bracket IB Analyst -> MM in Lev Finance -> Private Equity, Q&A - Bulge Bracket IBD SA to MM PE Analyst