An unconventional IB lateral?

Ah, swinging from the vines of investment banking to the government relations and regulatory & public affairs jungle, are we? That's quite the leap! Based on the most helpful WSO content, here's what I can tell you:

1. Career Post-IB: Transitioning from IB to government relations or public affairs is indeed unconventional but not unheard of. Your skills in deal-making, understanding complex regulatory environments, and stakeholder management can be quite transferable.

2. Salaries and Headcount: While I don't have specific numbers on salaries and department sizes, generally, these roles in top banks can be well-compensated, though perhaps not as high as front-office IB roles. The headcount for these departments can vary widely depending on the bank's size, geographic footprint, and the regulatory environment they operate in.

3. Global Opportunities: In terms of global opportunities, larger markets like the US, especially Washington D.C., or Brussels for the EU, may offer more positions due to the concentration of regulatory bodies there. However, London is also a significant hub for such roles given its financial importance.

4. Relevant Experience: Your background in diplomacy and a master's degree could be quite beneficial. It shows you have a solid understanding of political and international relations, which is crucial in government relations roles.

Remember, while the path is less traveled, it's the unique experiences that can make you stand out. Your ability to navigate complex regulatory landscapes and your diplomatic skills could make you a prime candidate for such a role within your current organization or elsewhere. Keep leveraging your network within the bank and don't be afraid to reach out to those already in the roles you're eyeing to gather more intel. Good luck!

Sources: https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/investment-banking/public-finance-qa?customgpt=1, Public Finance Q&A, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/investment-banking/pros-and-cons-ib-vs-pm?customgpt=1, Career path after PE?, Best college major for IB at Ivy?