Lateral from Junior Associate EB RX to Director in FTI RX

Base comp and total comp may still be lower as a director in FTI-like Company, but you are relatively senior plus you are staffed at only one project at a time. You work 2/3's of the hours and earn like 2/3 of the comp which after taxes might be 3/4's.

Maybe this is an overlooked exit-opp with a higher appeal to employees seeking more life balance. Of course you are gonna get worked, but not IB RX type of hours. What can an FTI director work per week? I am guessing 60 hours in a rough week, maybe 70 the worst week of the year. I am currently getting worked 80 consistently with peaks that increase tens above that.

In my case, I believe I can make the jump for junior associate to director as I currently work hand to hand with a director from FTI. Maybe it could be worth asking him about it.

What do you guys think about this take?

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Years ago, when dinosaurs ruled the world, I almost made the exact same move (not FTi but very similar).

Junior associate at top independent firm to Director level. At that time comp was the same. I was ready to go until I met the senior partner of the place I was going to move to and he basically told me, “I have an offer ready for you and I would love you to join. But If I were in your shoes, I wouldn’t do it. You may feel burned out now but I can see from the time we’ve spent to go how ambitious you are and you will regret it in time. I suggest you take some time offf and pace yourself but stay in the big leagues.” Wonderful man, and it was absolutely the right advice for me. It may not be the right advice for you, but the long term paths and comp is very different and don’t mistake short term burnout for long term ambition. 

 

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