Had a conversation few days ago with a guy who joined his firm 13-14 years ago as post-MBA associate but is still a director. Was curious why he was still D(SVP), but didn't want to be rude so didn't ask on the spot.
How long can one stay at the SVP/Director level before being shown the door?
Can one turn down a MD promotion and stay at D level if he/she wants to?
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Know a guy who was an aso for 7 years and vp for 6, so probably a long time
I didn't even know staying over 4 years as associate was possible. The Director I spoke to did the traditional 3.5 years as associate, then 3.5 years as VP according to his Linkedin. Then he got promoted to D/SVP and still is after 7+ years...
That sounds awful. I'd rather hurl myself out of my office window than still be executing some other dumbass's deals when I'm 45.
Totally depends on the firm. Generally if you've been kept on at that level despite not having brought in business, it's probably because the firm recognizes your execution / leadership abilities with more junior bankers. However, there is a point in time you become a cost rather than an asset to team given you'll likely be seeing/want to see increases in comp which don't really match your value. Once you hit this point it's fair game and a matter of time before you're let go
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