BO to IB? No MBA
I’m trying to understand how realistic this is. I’m two years out of undergrad and currently in a rotational program at a lower-tier bank (Tier 4). I graduated from a semi-target (UMich, non-Ross) with a math degree
Recently, I spoke with a Senior MD at an elite boutique through my network. I shared my interest in IB and explained why I want to make the transition. He told me an MBA is not strictly necessary but that I would likely need to start at the analyst level, which I am completely fine with. He also offered to connect me with a few FIG bankers so I can learn more about the nature of the work
That said, I am still unsure how feasible this path is. I asked whether I should target smaller firms given my current experience, but he advised me to aim for the larger ones. He also mentioned that equity research might be a more attainable move in the short term
Is it realistic to break into IB at this stage without an MBA? I would prefer not to pursue one, but from what I have seen online, opportunities seem limited. Any insight or advice from those who have made a similar transition would be greatly appreciated
Breaking into IB from a back-office (BO) role without an MBA is challenging but not impossible. Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some key insights and actionable steps:
Starting at the Analyst Level:
Networking is Critical:
Targeting Larger Firms vs. Smaller Firms:
Equity Research as a Stepping Stone:
Skill Development:
Realistic Expectations Without an MBA:
Persistence and Fit:
In summary, transitioning from BO to IB without an MBA is feasible but requires a strategic approach. Focus on networking, skill-building, and targeting the right firms. Equity research could serve as a stepping stone if IB opportunities are limited in the short term. Stay persistent and open to alternative paths that align with your long-term goals.
Sources: Transitioning from Tech Sales to IB, Failed to "Break In" at my MBA Program - Next Steps?, Long Term Career in IB | What is the Strategy?, Failed to "Break In" at my MBA Program - Next Steps?, 34 year old day trader to investment banker
What type of roles are you gonna have for the rotational program? Not all BO roles are viewed equally by employers.
Did all fp&a
Nice that’s actually one of the better back office positions to be in. First I would define what you want to do between IB and ER. Once you choose a path I’d then focus on taking the GMAT and scoring above a 655 at least because there is a high probability you will need business school. If you can juggle it, networking in the meantime and upskilling/practicing stock pitches will help. Hopefully you will land the position you want without Bschool but if after 2 years you come up short then it’s time to fire off applications at MBA programs. Finally, I would avoid the CFA at all costs.
Edit: I forgot you mentioned earlier you were a math major. You may want to consider taking the GRE and applying right away to an MFE or MFIN program if you’re interested in doing Sales and Trading instead.
Probably on the harder side but you have FP&A experience which might prove useful. If you lack relevant internships that makes it harder - I assume you’re not going leave your job to intern anywhere.
Equity research is very interesting but realistically you’ll need a masters for it and long term if you wanted to stay on that path and not get stuck at a mid-senior level it would require a PhD.
In terms of straight IB, try to go for it, but be realistic about where you stand in terms of your competition. There are plenty of banks that have a CB division within IBD. These firms will offer more opportunity for work across different transactions (acquisition finance, project finance, capital markets, etc). Depending on your deal exposure there that could be a route into IB, but it would be long term and definitely a grind.
Third avenue would be to go for and actually stay in CB. The nature of the work can be interesting and the hours are much better. Comp is lower than IB but still significantly above median. I know people who have made that choice and my average friend in CB is probably happier than those in IB, and certainly myself when I was in it.
If you’re not sure about IB vs ER, try to think about what you actually want to do with your life. These are quite different career paths so it sounds like you just want more than what you’re doing right now. Whatever you do, get yourself in a position where you can make the most educated decision about your next move. Talk to more people about the day to day, the hours, the comp, their life outside of work, etc.
CB is actually an area I’d be interested in. My bank has a CB division in the nyc office but it’s been pretty tough to crack. Attrition is extremely low and jobs rarely open up at the analyst level. Do you mind if I DM?
Boomer MD thinks switching into "large" IB/ER is easy, shocking. Get the MBA in a year or 2 and you should be fine
Plan A: I would have told you exactly what the MD told you: just join an analyst program. MBA is a non-consideration at that level . . MBA is for associates, not analysts. Math degree from UM is plenty good enough. You just need to study the standard finance technical stuff (do the formal program like TTS or BIWS or one of those) and start applying. Definitely keep networking because folks like this MD are going to meet you and see that you have the brains and humility that come across in your post, and they'll move you to the top of the resume stack.
Plan B: If you want the extra security of the MBA waiting for you if/when Plan A fails, then go ahead and get those B-school apps out and then apply to analyst programs as you begin the long waiting process for b-school results and for b-school to begin. There's a good 6-10 months between your first acceptance letter and when school would begin, so plenty of time to shift back to Plan A if you want to have two plans.
Similique assumenda ea dolor repudiandae. Tempora expedita dolores aut in. Ut harum praesentium voluptas magnam.
See All Comments - 100% Free
WSO depends on everyone being able to pitch in when they know something. Unlock with your email and get bonus: 6 financial modeling lessons free ($199 value)
or Unlock with your social account...