BGL 2025
How is BGL's culture/rep/comp etc in 2025? Where does it rank compared to other MM shops in Chicago?
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Based on the most helpful WSO content, Brown Gibbons Lang (BGL) has a reputation for a challenging work environment, often described as a "sweatshop." Analysts reportedly work until 3-4 am regularly, with weekends often not protected. The culture is described as fratty, with poor communication and a lack of respect for juniors from senior staff. This has led to high turnover, with many analysts leaving after their first year, sometimes without securing another job. Compensation is slightly below street and hasn't been raised in a while, which, combined with the brutal hours, makes it less appealing compared to other firms.
In terms of ranking among middle-market (MM) shops in Chicago, BGL does not compare favorably to top MM firms like William Blair, Baird, or Lincoln International. These firms are known for better deal flow, stronger cultures, and more competitive compensation. For example: - William Blair: Known as one of the top MM shops in Chicago with strong deal flow and solid exit opportunities. - Baird: Similar to Blair, with a strong focus on industrials and a better culture. - Lincoln International: Slightly below Blair and Baird but still offers strong deal flow and a better work-life balance.
If you're considering MM shops in Chicago, BGL would likely rank lower due to its poor culture and lifestyle compared to these other firms.
Sources: Chicago BB and EB Ranking, Brown Gibbons Lang - Chicago/Cleveland, B Riley, Blair, Stifel, Baird, Lincoln - Any Insight?, Chicago Scene 2019, David and Goliath: The Boutique and The Bulge Bracket
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I heard from a previous intern that their CHI office is a pure sweatshop. He got the return yet was actively recruiting elsewhere. good for experience i guess
Don't think much has changed in the past few years. It's solidly below the typical MM names (HL, Baird, Blair, Lincoln, Piper), but it has some decent verticals in industrials and business services. The firm's pay is still not on par with those mentioned above, in terms of overall comp. There are also still cultural challenges - it's never been a friendly place to work and it's one of the first places to push out junior bankers when deal flow is down.
Heard last years analyst class got axed. Would stay away.
Can confirm this did happen. Heard a list got sent around either by HR or someone senior with the summer analysts performance by accident and any summer analyst who opened it didn't get a return. Can also confirm chicago office is a sweatshop. Not sure what bonuses look like but I know for a fact base is $110k now.
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