MD loyalty dilemma

Hi all.  So for background I just completed my internship in IB at a top BB and received a return offer. To be blunt, I got this internship largely because of one MD who helped push my resume and I capitalized on the interview and got the job in his group.  The group, however, is a niche one (think real estate, fig, energy) and not one of the most sought after groups.  Now, the opportunity for me to switch into another group (potentially m&a, tech, industrials, healthcare) has came up.  If I would like to switch groups to what one that I think is more interesting / prestigious, is it worth it to do that and upset the MD that legit is the sole reason I am in this position.  Or is it better to suck it up and stick it out in the group out of loyalty for the guy who is the reason I'm at the firm.  How do you all approach these sorts of issues in your career?  Would appreciate any guidance - thanks

11 Comments
 

I'm an intern but I would feel sad that you left for like 5 minutes, but then understand also why you may be going to other groups. I would try to find a way to frame it so that he doesn't think it's because of him, etc.

 

Everyone is different, but my bias would be to set up a candid conversation with him and communicate your feelings.

I would set it up by discussing:

  • What you liked about your experience so far - start with positives
  • Talk about how you truly value and maintain a relationship with the MD

But, be authentic and honest about:

  • Concern about being pigeonholed in a niche group / lack of interest in this niche group (whatever the story is, just articulate your concerns or issues with it)
  • Ask his perspective about other groups or other routes that more closely align with what you want or are interested in

I realize he may take this negatively, but most in his shoes would appreciate candor, honesty and transparency. 

 

Very MD-dependent as mentioned above. I know an analyst who pulled the exact same move and joined another group after her internship. The MD, who's a big shot, took it pretty badly and she was one of the first fired when layoffs happened.

Did that analyst actually contact the MD or just blindside them? There's a right way to do this, and that involves difficult conversations, which nobody enjoys having.

How much did the prior MD's influence have on the firing? I think it may be circumstantial. 

 
Most Helpful

Why not invite him out for coffee and expresses your gratitude once again for what he did for you.

Then ask his advice on guidance on what you should do.

Tell him that you’re interested in this new group, but also feel a sense of loyalty to him. Should you try for the new group that interests you? Would it be more prudent to work in his group for a year or two and then try to move and do something different? Say you respect his word and want his input.

 

Switch after a year later. Works good on both ends. If your BB is really the top (GS/MS/JPM) you should be fine. 

 

This. I genuinely think you do owe it to the MD to stick it out for a bit. If you hate it after 1yr, then yeah feel free to jump ship.

 

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