Lateral upwards as a senior banker (London)
Just wondering how difficult it would be for a more senior banker (Associate/VP) to upgrade firms in London—for example, moving from a boutique like GP Bullhound, Torch Partners, or Drake Star to a larger TMT middle-market firm (Arma, HL, Jefferies, etc.) or even an EB/BB platform.
My background: I’m about to start as an analyst in one of the Continental European offices of one of the firms mentioned above (Nordic/Paris). However, my long-term goal is to move to London and become a senior banker at a large platform.
Based on the most helpful WSO content, lateraling upwards as a senior banker in London is certainly possible, but it depends on several factors:
Performance and Reputation: Your track record as an Associate/VP will be critical. Strong deal experience, technical skills, and a solid reputation within your current firm and the industry will make you a more attractive candidate.
Networking: Building a strong network in London is essential. Attend industry events, connect with headhunters, and maintain relationships with colleagues and clients. Headhunters play a significant role in senior-level moves, especially for EBs and BBs.
Firm Dynamics: Larger platforms like Jefferies, HL, or EBs/BBs often look for candidates with specific expertise (e.g., TMT) and a proven ability to generate revenue or manage client relationships. Demonstrating these skills will be key.
Timing and Market Conditions: The ease of moving depends on the hiring needs of the target firms and the broader market environment. In a strong market, firms may be more open to lateral hires.
Cultural Fit: Moving from a boutique to a larger platform may require adapting to a different culture and work environment. Highlighting your ability to work in diverse settings can help.
Geographic Transition: Since you're starting in a Continental European office, transitioning to London will require demonstrating your understanding of the UK market and your ability to build relationships there.
To maximize your chances: - Gain as much deal experience as possible in your current role. - Focus on building expertise in TMT if that’s your target area. - Start networking in London early, even while you're in Europe. - Work with headhunters who specialize in senior banking roles in London.
Remember, moving to a larger platform is achievable, but it requires strategic planning and consistent effort over time.
Sources: Q&A: Vice President at London IB Boutique, 20 Most Frequently Asked Questions - London Edition, BB vs EB total compensation, LDN: Lateral from Tier 2 BB to T1 Boutique?, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/investment-banking/qa-md-in-ma-and-capital-markets-with-bulge-bracket-and-boutique-experience?customgpt=1
Assume you'll start in Paris at GP Bullhound / Cambon / Clipperton or a like. I'd say the move you envisaged is definitely possible as long as you become a top performer in your sub-vertical (e.g., IT Services, Software, Fintech, etc.) This type of profile would attract a larger platform wanting to cover France from London (typical example would be Arma, as they don't have Parisian office for now)
Great so Bullhound / Cambon / Clipperton Paris > internal transfer to London -> move as assoc to more prestigious MM Firm (HL, Arma etc. ) -> EB/BB/Qatalyst etc
Could you guys imagine someone moving from Cambon directly to a EB/BB?
Different situation depending on the specific firm. For example Clipperton doesn't have any office in LDN, Cambon has a really small one (5 FTEs), etc. Also bankers in Paris would clearly rank Cambon >> Clipperton/GP Bullhound. But yeah the 2 possible moves would be:
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