BB offer likely at Analyst. Base cut, forfeited bonus, and I’d be giving up scope. Talk me into or out of it.
Where I sit now. Small west coast bank, strong title, healthcare deals in the $20M to $75M range. I lead essentially every part of the process. The firm is growing well and the economics are strong, roughly $1M in fees per employee counting every seat including back office.
The problems: we are extremely focused on one narrow niche, I have zero visibility into what comp looks like two or three years out, and exit opportunities from here are a total unknown. That’s the part that has me looking.
Background: about 5 years in, 4 at a T1 consulting firm and 1 in banking. No MBA. Recruiter at a bulge bracket is signaling an offer, but at analyst. For what it’s worth, I think the process went about as well as it could have.
If I go in as an analyst, the comp picture is ugly. Base decrease, plus I forfeit nine months of accrued bonus by leaving now. Best case is that total comp ticks up slightly 12 months from now, and only if I hit a full 100% of base as bonus.
Where I need help -
Is Associate a realistic ask, or does the consulting time get discounted to zero? Landing the level is what makes the math on comp worth.
Should I be asking for a signing bonus to cover the forfeited nine months and a floor on year-one bonus?
Is the brand worth a level reset, a pay cut, and going from running deals to an analyst seat?
Appreciate all the help!
Move is worth it. Reasonable ask for them to give you a sign on your compensate for some foregone bonus. Associate not happening.
1yr banking and some consulting unfortunately still makes you an Analyst. Can try to push for An2/3 but unlikely you get an Associate title. Maybe Associate 0.
The brand increase may be worth it if you’re trying to optimize for exits. Would definitely ask about a bonus buyout / relocation package.
Also think about if you can get offers elsewhere. Plenty of banks hiring at Associate level and you may want to test the market and see if you can get interviews at that level.
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