Landed in a pretty good seat, L/S equity, performance has been great but PM is a nightmare... used to love going to work but now somewhat dread it. Hours are crazy so it's tough to look elsewhere for a job. Relationship with PM is not great, despite putting up solid numbers, so path to managing my own book (Only reason I moved to a platform) now looks unlikely. Should I just quit without a job lined up? Likely will have more than enough money to not work anymore (Low burn rate) and can manage my own portfolio (Historical returns before taking up this seat have been great - talking few X my portfolio over 5 years) but I happen to really love my job.
Trending Content - Hedge Fund Forum
Career Resources
It sounds like you're in a tough spot, but based on the most helpful WSO content, here’s how you might approach this:
Assess the Toxicity vs. Your Long-Term Goals: If the PM is truly blocking your path to managing your own book and the relationship is irreparable, it’s worth considering your options. Toxic environments can erode your passion and mental health over time, even if you love the work itself.
Don’t Rush to Quit Without a Plan: While you have the financial flexibility to step away, leaving without a clear next step can create challenges, such as a resume gap or difficulty re-entering the industry. Many WSO users recommend sticking it out while quietly exploring other opportunities. Use your spare time to network, cold-email, and apply for roles that align with your goals.
Leverage Your Track Record: Your strong historical returns and current performance are valuable assets. If you decide to leave, you could position yourself for a role at another fund or even consider starting your own fund if you have the appetite for it. However, ensure you’re leaving for the right reasons and not out of desperation.
Consider the Mental Health Angle: Toxic environments can take a toll. If the situation is unbearable and affecting your well-being, stepping away might be the best choice. As one WSO user put it, “Your health is more important than any job.” If you do leave, use the time to recharge and strategize your next move.
Explore Internal Options: Before making a drastic decision, is there any way to improve the relationship with your PM or gain more autonomy? Sometimes, small adjustments can make a big difference.
Ultimately, the decision comes down to balancing your financial security, career aspirations, and mental health. If you do decide to leave, ensure it’s on your terms and with a clear plan for what’s next.
Sources: Dealing with PM (equities) who is trying to limit your progress, Quitting IB in 2023 - Burnout, Laid Off From Toxic Job, Burned out at dream job - time for a change?, Burned Out - Quitting w/o an offer?
Another toxic PM post this week.. where is that PM guy who just likes to blame analysts? I’ll wait for his comment.
Anyways, first of all sorry to hear that you’re in a toxic seat. Can you get fridays WFH and squeeze all interviews then? That’s what me and my friends did when we recruited. If that’s not possible, do you get to step away from your desk for a bit during lunch? Can try to squeeze in shorter calls then. Worst case use PTO/sick days whichever is more believable in your case. Unfortunately for case studies will either have to do them late at night and/or stay up late consecutive days.. it’ll suck but be worth it.
Since you love your job and presumably still want to work, I’d start looking for another seat asap while you’re still employed. Second option if the culture truly sucks and affects your mental and physical health is to quit. But be aware of the tough job market. Are there any HHs or anyone in your network you can reach out to see if they have any spots opening / something lined up and can have you do a relatively easier process?
Third option for some people usually is to stay if it’s a good seat but bad culture in hopes it pays dividends down the line in some way (reference, good bonuses, etc.) but it sounds like you have a bad relationship with your PM. Is it so bad that he has made it clear that you won’t see the sleeve at all and will potentially short you on comp despite putting up great numbers? If so I would personally leave but I know some still choose to stay (especially the PM guy and his minions from the other thread). I think #1 thing here to be clear on why he won’t give you a sleeve… maybe ask another person on the team (who has been there longer) and get their opinion first.
Impedit molestiae laborum nihil voluptatem laudantium laborum. Quasi neque et magnam est et. Incidunt vitae et dolor eum.
Necessitatibus saepe consectetur delectus sit culpa maiores. Non aperiam iure architecto. Nesciunt sunt quos eos et minus eligendi. Veritatis veritatis laudantium vero sit cumque. Consequatur sint est et. Omnis nobis voluptas eum fuga illum molestiae quaerat.
Voluptas hic consequuntur ab explicabo optio sint nobis aut. Molestiae aut fuga accusantium iste. Quis magni veniam sit itaque tenetur. Quos qui aperiam quo minima voluptatem consequatur veritatis assumenda.
See All Comments - 100% Free
WSO depends on everyone being able to pitch in when they know something. Unlock with your email and get bonus: 6 financial modeling lessons free ($199 value)
or Unlock with your social account...