Advice on current position
Hi Monkeys, Wanted to begin by saying I know I’m cooked, but would like some advice on what the next best steps are.
I graduated from a UK university (semi-target) with a 4.0 GPA in 2023 with a degree in Economics and Finance, but did not take early interest in IB recruiting at the time.
As a graduate role I managed to secure a MO position as a Valuation Control Analyst in a BB (think JPM/MS/GS) in London, and have gotten tired of thinking the classic regret of “should have done research, should have network, should have looked into the industry, yada yada”.
I should have done all of that, and I know, I’m quite the dumbass. Ive started to complete my CFA exams (I know people will say useless for IB, but want to do something for personal development). I am also planning to do an MBA in a couple of years at a chance for a second try now that I know, and I am aware I will need to achieve good GMATs for a top school. It hit me like a truck after a year working at the bank, so have now started to network internally for an off chance I get an opportunity (I know chances are very slim). I have also started thinking of applying to off-cycles or other FO entry level jobs.
Feel like an idiot and that I am late, and its fine you can call me one too, but was wondering if you guys were in my shoes, what would the best steps be? And how cooked am I?
I appreciate any advice…
Thanks.
Yes this is an extremely difficult situation and your likelihood of moving straight to front office roles is very low.
If I were in your shoes (that is knowing everything that I know now but being in a MO role at a BB with your academic background), I would still be motivated to move into IB / PE. Biased, but I like the job on the whole. So I would do two things. Firstly, I would immediately apply for 2025 MSc courses. With your grades you should be fine; try to get into something finance / economics / accounting related. Second, I would apply for 2025 graduate programs at the Big 4 (audit, TS, or similar). This changes to 2026 graduate programs if you fail to get an offer for 2025. My plan A would be to work in Big 4 for 3 years, get the accounting qualification, and try to move to IB / PE MM firms either directly or after a stint in FDD.
By all means continue to be opportunistic and apply for FO roles and internships, but honestly (and if I really were in your shoes), I would not hold my breath for a FO role directly.
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