Rank these options for me
Current junior at target and I'm curious to hear how you would rank the following options:
RX consulting at a T1 firm (A&M, Alix, FTI) IB at a mid-tier BB (Citi, Wells Fargo, Bofa, Barclays) T2 Consulting (Accenture Strategy, EYP, ATK, OW)
Obviously, IB would be the most versatile in terms of exiting to PE, Corp Dev, etc, but if I'm not wrong RX consulting is also a great backdoor for similar roles with a focus on distressed PE/funds, private credit, ops. Personally, I'm a lot more interested in RX consulting but it's hard to find info online because of how niche it is compared to the other options, so I would appreciate any advice or input. Thanks.
Based on the most helpful WSO content, here's how these options stack up:
RX Consulting at a T1 Firm (A&M, Alix, FTI): RX consulting is highly regarded for its specialized skill set and exposure to distressed situations, operational turnarounds, and legal processes. It offers strong exit opportunities into distressed PE, private credit, and operational roles. The work-life balance is often better than IB, and the compensation is competitive, especially at senior levels. If you're genuinely interested in RX and distressed investing, this is a fantastic choice.
IB at a Mid-Tier BB (Citi, Wells Fargo, BofA, Barclays): While not as prestigious as top-tier BBs or elite boutiques, mid-tier BBs still provide solid training, deal exposure, and exit opportunities into PE, corp dev, and other finance roles. If your goal is to maximize optionality and you're open to a broader range of exits, IB is a versatile path.
T2 Consulting (Accenture Strategy, EYP, ATK, OW): These firms are strong in their own right but generally don't offer the same level of exit opportunities into high finance roles as RX consulting or IB. They are better suited for those interested in strategy, operations, or corporate roles rather than distressed investing or PE.
If you're more passionate about RX consulting and distressed investing, the first option aligns well with your interests and career goals. However, if you value broader optionality and are undecided about your long-term path, IB might be the safer bet. T2 consulting would be a distant third unless you have a specific interest in strategy or operational consulting.
Sources: How is A&M perceived in the industry?, mid tier bb's and eb comparison, Investment banks BB/EB London ranking 2020, Bain Capital PE vs PJT RSSG, How many target kids go straight to MF PE?
I'd accept your Wells Fargo offer unless you have a specific interest in Rx/distressed debt
And what about T1 RX Consulting vs T2 Consulting. How would you compare the two?
WF is by far the weakest BB on that list lol - anyone who picks WF over Citi has to be cognitively handicapped.
Given the choices/context and that one of OP’s goals is buy-side, I would say their decision should be highly contingent on what group the offer is for. Deal flow and exit opps are highly variable by group at WF in this regard. This is also assuming the choice is between WF and jobs in the other two industries
Can you shed some lights on groups at WF with good deal flow/exit opps. I'm interested in LevFin. I also heard some negative things about TMT at WF.
Rx Consulting is not a good backdoor to distressed investing. Also dont believe any of them hire undergrads either.
Incorrect. FTI and A&M have undergrad hiring. Not sure about Alix
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