Fashion to IB: Advice for a London newbie?

Hi everyone!

I am a fashion buying grad with experience in market penetration and business development for young fashion companies. Non-profit management and runway execution on the side.
I will be starting a BSc Econ degree at University fo London this September, and I have started applying to IB firms for internships in PE.

What would be my best way forward? Formal recruiting or cold call the boutique firms?

I'm interested in how capital from mature economies is cross invested. (Asia Pacific and Europe).

 

"I have started applying to IB firms for internships in PE." ?? I'd start with emailing people at those firms and setting up phone calls rather than cold calling

 

Just to get this straight, you're completing a second undergraduate degree in Economics having previously completed one in fashion buying? If so, I think given your unusual background, it would make sense to network as much as you can in order to explain your background and motivations, ahead of a standard CV submission where the qualitative overlay would be lost.

 

You should definitely use your fashion background to your advantage. Most people in FO roles in finance like having fashion friends because it acts as a status symbol and certification that they have some semblance of a life outside of their job.

If you can hook up your hiring manager with a famous finance person for a social event (bonus points if they get laid on the 1st date), you're a shoe-in.

 

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