From CorpDev—> Back to IB?

I currently have 1 year of F100 HCIT CorpDev experience right now (can’t disclose more than that I’m sorry) and feel like I don’t think theres room for me to grow here. Previously, I was at a boutique IB and worked on a few deals in the space but it looks like they are inactive. I miss being in that fast paced environment where I’m making best use of my time by helping execute live M&A deals. Not to say I’m not doing that here or learning but I just don’t see myself developing my career here. I have 3 years of banking experience and wondering what are my options:

a) I want to work at a reputable shop whether that be MM, BB, Industry Coverage Boutique, etc. Do you have an idea what level will I be placed? Analyst or Associate? Ideally I’d be happy at a bigger more established platform but if not then I will reach out to our boutique banker contacts.

b) If banking doesn't work out where do I go next? We play in a niche space where there are only a hand few of players. I couldn't find relevant openings for CorpDev roles with competitors and startups. Do I need to start networking? 
 

Thanks everyone! 

10 Comments
 

Thank you so much for your response! Glad it worked out for you. That’s inspiring to see that. It made perfect sense since you have related experience even though its not in IB; you still had that HC industry experience which is the most important IMO. 
 

Will definitely aim for associate roles. How were you able to snag that opportunity? Was it through applying online for roles or was it via networking/connections? Just curious. Thanks again!

 

Just to clarify, 3 years of banking experience + 1 year corp dev? Lateral associate for sure.

If you're at a recognizable firm now, think your options should be pretty open. Start networking with BB/EB and see if your background is of interest to them. Depending on how boutique your previous banking experience was, you may need to start with an MM but I think mix of banking experience + brand name corp dev is a good profile for most firms.

 

Thanks for your response as well! Much appreciated. Correct and that makes sense cuz I was borderline senior analyst to associate promote at my previous firm. 
 

Awesome as I want to aim higher at the BB/EB level if I can. However, you may be right in me starting at a MM. The reason being is that my banking experience was particularly in the LMM so hopefully not too tough in helping them relate to my experience a bit. Would be happy at any firm with good culture and steady dealflow tbh. 

 

Thanks for your response as well! Much appreciated. Correct and that makes sense cuz I was borderline senior analyst to associate promote at my previous firm. 
 

Awesome as I want to aim higher at the BB/EB level if I can. However, you may be right in me starting at a MM. The reason being is that my banking experience was particularly in the LMM so hopefully not too tough in helping them relate to my experience a bit. Would be happy at any firm with good culture and steady dealflow tbh. 

Tbh I think this is a long shot. Why did you stay 3 years at a no name boutique? Most interviewers at BB/EB will assume you tried to lateral and were unsuccessful. 
 

brand name matters - agree that MM is most likely and EB would maybe entertain you joining at analyst level

 

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