FT London IB vs Paris VC/Growth
Hello everyone,
I’m a French student doing a Target MFin in the UK and have been offered 2 Full Time positions starting Q3 2024:
IB Analyst at a reputable bank (Jefferies, Nomura, RBC) in London
VC/Growth Analyst at a good French fund (Korelya, Demeter, AVP, XAnge) in Paris
I’ve always wanted to start my career in London IB for the international exposure and optionality but wondering if a buy side opportunity like this can be refused.
Still unsure if I want to to early stage investing later on.
What would you do?
Choosing between an IB Analyst role in London and a VC/Growth Analyst position in Paris is a significant decision that hinges on your career aspirations, lifestyle preferences, and long-term goals. Here's a breakdown to help you weigh your options:
London IB Analyst: - International Exposure: London's financial sector is highly international, offering exposure to global markets and a diverse set of clients. - Learning Curve: Investment Banking in London provides a steep learning curve with structured training programs. It's an excellent foundation for understanding financial markets, M&A, and complex financial modeling. - Work Culture: Be prepared for long hours and a demanding work environment. However, this also means you'll gain a lot of experience in a short amount of time. - Exit Opportunities: A stint in IB, especially in a financial hub like London, opens doors to numerous opportunities in private equity, hedge funds, and corporate roles globally.
Paris VC/Growth Analyst: - Specialization Early On: Starting in VC/Growth allows you to specialize early in your career. If you're passionate about startups, technology, and innovation, this could be a rewarding path. - Work-Life Balance: Generally, VC/Growth roles offer a better work-life balance compared to IB. However, this can vary depending on the fund and its operational pace. - Networking and Ecosystem: Working in VC in Paris, you'll immerse yourself in the European startup ecosystem, which is beneficial if you aim to stay in venture capital or move into a startup leadership role. - Investor Mindset: You'll develop an investor's mindset, evaluating companies, understanding market trends, and making investment decisions. This skill is valuable, especially if you aim to pursue early-stage investing.
Considerations: - Career Flexibility: London IB might offer more flexibility in switching roles or industries later on due to the broad skill set you'll develop. - Long-Term Goals: Reflect on where you see yourself in the long term. If you're drawn to the startup world and venture capital, starting in VC could be advantageous. - Cultural and Lifestyle Preferences: Consider where you'd prefer to live, the work culture you thrive in, and the lifestyle each city offers.
Ultimately, there's no right or wrong choice, as both paths offer unique opportunities and learning experiences. Consider your career goals, personal preferences, and where you see yourself making the most impact.
Sources: What are the best Investment Banks in Paris? I know London is the mecca of IB's, but I'm interested in living in Paris., 20 Most Frequently Asked Questions - London Edition, London - Most Prestigious Grad Roles, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/investment-banking/ib-vs-consulting?customgpt=1, London vs New York IB
anyone besides the bot?
I would go straight to buyside if it's the position you want to end up in anyway - IB sucks
Yeah I'd go buyside too - the fact that's it's in Paris and you are French is icing on the cake
I would take the London IB seat if you're still unsure about your career path
Take the buyside role. Only sacrifice it for GS, JPM or MS. These are the 3 banks that lead the majority of the deals in EMEA. Your experience as an analyst is different if your bank leads the deal vs supports it.
The thing is I could easily lateral to these banks from the ones I mentioned
If your aim is KKR, Carlyle, Blackstone, then go into IB and sure, lateral into the BBs and improve your chances.
If your aim is to go into VC, then no point taking the roundabout way.
Congrats on both offers!!
French student as well looking to follow your path. May we DM?
Yes if you want
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