Currently recruiting for MM summer associate (and beyond) opportunities and wanted to hear of any recent trends with these seemingly similar firms. Baird/Lincoln/Harris Williams Primarily focused on Baird vs Lincoln and any differences in work life/culture/exit opps between the two. Planning for longevity at either but recognize that is easier said than done. For context: coming from a top 15 MBA program in the northeast and would be perfectly happy in Milwaukee or Chicago (fiancé grew up/has family in Milwaukee, I used to live in Chicago).
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Culture: Baird is known for having a huge emphasis on culture. This is an initiative from the c-suite and higher ups, so they are really gung-ho about making sure it is always being implemented; they even have videos on their website about it.
Comp: I believe they start their associates out at $175k base nowadays, which is nice (heard this is because base salary doesn't increase every year like most banks, just bonus does-- please correct me if I'm wrong).
Just some data points I've gathered from recruiting and speaking to people at the firm.