Hello all, finished up a IB SA Stint at a MM and didn't get an RO because of headcount reasons. Ended up landing a B4 Valuations role for and plan to be aggressive and get staffed on more on PE + M&A valuations. I want to Pivot back into IB and preferably aim for that solid MM, low BB range. Is this doable? For more reference on me: 3.8 GPA, nontarget, leadership in 2 clubs, over 1 year credit fund/business advisory experience, previous internship in FP&A at global Corp.
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Based on the most helpful WSO content, transitioning from a Big Four Valuation role to Investment Banking (IB) is indeed possible, especially if you aim for the middle market (MM) or lower-tier bulge bracket (BB) range. Here are some key points to consider:
Project Experience:
Networking:
Exit Opportunities:
Skill Development:
Interview Preparation:
Timeline:
Given your strong GPA, leadership experience, and previous internships, you have a solid foundation to make this transition. Stay focused, network aggressively, and seek out the right project experiences to enhance your profile for IB roles.
Sources: Q&A: Big Four Valuation Associate - Deciding Whether This Job Is Right For You, Q&A: Big Four Valuation Associate - Deciding Whether This Job Is Right For You, Q&A - Non-Target >> Valuation >> MM IB, MSF -->> Big 4 Valuation Q&A, Big4 Valuation to IB
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Should be more than possible, are you getting your CPA as well? I think a lateral move to one of the MM’s is definitely doable if you network. Worst case scenario you can get an MBA and then make the pivot. Caveat though, I’m based in the UK where lateral moves from B4 to IB are slightly easier.
In my experience, definitely possible, especially if you're willing to be flexible on the IB bank/group. I didn't start to get bites on my resume until I hit 1 year of experience though (lateraled from corporate banking). Maybe less time for you since you already have an SA stint
Would you say strong MM/Low BB is a good range. Also, I actually had interviews this FT season for a lot of them but didn't secure anything unfortunately. Would this be a problem? In my mind that's not too deep because I'm coming back 1 year later refreshed but who knows.
I'm curious to hear how this is going for you? Have you started networking or gotten any bites on applications? What's been your strategy for transitioning back to IB?
I'm in similar situation as you where I'm in a senior valuation role at a small firm, 2yrs experience, non-target and looking to break into IB.
Didn't start yet lol but was still getting bites on my resume for FT'25 still and I'm barely applying. Right now my contacts r booked - I plan to start reaching out over the summer when I begin.
Given you are at a small valuation firm and from a non-target, I would make sure you temper your expectations about transitioning to IB. I am not saying it is impossible, but I think it will not be easy coming from a small valuation firm. Below are some things to consider:
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