2 Comments
 

Based on the WSO threads discussing lateral hiring in investment banking, here’s what you need to know:

  1. Timing for Lateral Moves: If you're aiming to switch by September, starting your preparation and networking now is advisable. The recruitment process can vary in length, but being proactive will give you more time to align opportunities and go through the interview processes.

  2. Applying to a Sector Team: With your background as a generalist, you are not necessarily behind when applying to a sector team. However, it would be beneficial to highlight any specific sector-related projects or deals you've worked on that could align with the team you are interested in. This will demonstrate your ability to adapt and contribute to sector-specific discussions.

  3. Generalist M&A Teams at Bulge Bracket Banks: Many bulge bracket banks in London maintain strong generalist teams. These teams often value diverse experiences, especially from candidates who have a broad understanding across multiple sectors. Your generalist background from the Nordic region could be seen as a strong asset, especially if you've managed to work on a variety of deals.

In summary, starting your preparation now for a September move is wise, and your generalist background can be quite advantageous, both for sector teams and generalist roles. Make sure to tailor your application and networking efforts to highlight your diverse experience and specific sector knowledge where applicable.

Sources: Started in M&A this month; 30 Years old. No prior experience. Non-target school., https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/investment-banking/m7-ib-associate-full-time-recruiting?customgpt=1, London 2024 SA timeline, Advice on career and the switch into investment banking, When to jump - Advice on switching jobs, careers, and fields

I'm an AI bot trained on the most helpful WSO content across 17+ years.
 
Most Helpful

Esse fugit laudantium et et vel quam nemo. Consequuntur est officia doloremque dicta similique. Qui minus odio atque eligendi et eveniet. Ratione quidem similique accusamus adipisci rerum. Esse velit alias quas sit.

Fugiat non facilis cupiditate assumenda possimus quidem. Eius nulla voluptas maxime ullam animi sint ipsam. Dignissimos qui nam placeat et itaque. Quidem ea facilis aut dolorem. Earum quidem nisi omnis. Iusto hic ab nobis alias.

Voluptas fugiat a inventore. Consequatur iusto eveniet perferendis. Autem quia dicta ut tenetur perspiciatis ut.

Sponsors M&A (London)

Career Advancement Opportunities

July 2026 Hedge Fund

  • Point72 99.0%
  • D.E. Shaw 98.1%
  • Citadel Investment Group 97.1%
  • AQR Capital Management 96.2%
  • Magnetar Capital 95.2%

Overall Employee Satisfaction

July 2026 Hedge Fund

  • Magnetar Capital 99.0%
  • D.E. Shaw 98.0%
  • Blackstone Group 97.1%
  • Citadel Investment Group 96.1%
  • Millennium Partners 95.1%

Professional Growth Opportunities

July 2026 Hedge Fund

  • AQR Capital Management 99.0%
  • Point72 98.1%
  • D.E. Shaw 97.1%
  • Citadel Investment Group 96.2%
  • Magnetar Capital 95.2%

Total Avg Compensation

July 2026 Hedge Fund

  • Portfolio Manager (9) $1,648
  • Vice President (27) $464
  • Director/MD (12) $423
  • NA (9) $320
  • Engineer/Quant (86) $288
  • 3rd+ Year Associate (26) $284
  • Manager (4) $282
  • 2nd Year Associate (32) $253
  • 1st Year Associate (77) $191
  • Analysts (242) $181
  • Intern/Summer Associate (29) $145
  • Junior Trader (5) $102
  • Intern/Summer Analyst (282) $96
notes
16 IB Interviews Notes

“... there’s no excuse to not take advantage of the resources out there available to you. Best value for your $ are the...”

Leaderboard

1
redever's picture
redever
99.2
2
kanon's picture
kanon
99.0
3
Secyh62's picture
Secyh62
99.0
4
BankonBanking's picture
BankonBanking
99.0
5
DrApeman's picture
DrApeman
98.9
6
dosk17's picture
dosk17
98.9
7
Betsy Massar's picture
Betsy Massar
98.9
8
CompBanker's picture
CompBanker
98.9
9
GameTheory's picture
GameTheory
98.9
10
Jamoldo's picture
Jamoldo
98.8
success
From 10 rejections to 1 dream investment banking internship

“... I believe it was the single biggest reason why I ended up with an offer...”