MBA grad choosing between IB vs independent sponsor

Just graduated with my MBA and have two offers: IB vs an independent sponsor. The sponsor has strong connections to raise equity/debt and offers tremendous upside through equity.

Would you choose IB for the training/brand or take the sponsor route for the equity upside?

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2 Comments

PE

Associate 1 in PE - Other

2mo

Most Helpful

Assume you just completed your MBA summer internship and received a return offer. If I were you, I would ask myself four questions:

Is a career in banking within my group totally unsustainable, and do I genuinely hate the job?
Do I have the financial backing or material foundation to support me in pursuing that potential upside?
Does that "independent sponsor" have a strong track record (is he just a young MBB consultant or he actually has the experience of flipping a business), and most importantly is he genuinely a good person who would be willing to share the upside with me?
Am I comfortable with the perceived loss of prestige that may come with joining a one-person search fund?

Personally, I would join the independent sponsor only if my answer to all four questions were yes

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IB

Managing Director in IB-M&A

2mo

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Authored by: Certified Investment Banking Professional - Managing DirectorCertified Investment Banking Pro

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MBA grad choosing between IB vs independent sponsor

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MBA grad choosing between IB vs independent sponsor

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