Project Finance

I am very interested in Project Finance, specifically project finance at US banks compared to French or Japanese banks, as I enjoy the more holistic approach of providing advisory and modeling. I am in College at target, and I have a drive to work in Infrastructure at large. It is a sector that just makes sense to me. I don't know if that is in Infrastructure PE or SWF work.

What banks should I target? What is the best way to target them? How difficult is it to break in compared to Infra IB?

8 Comments
 

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here's what you need to know about targeting banks for Project Finance, especially in the context of Infrastructure:

Banks to Target for Project Finance:

  1. Top Tier International Banks:

    • Macquarie
    • Evercore
    • RBC
  2. Other Notable Banks:

    • Lazard
    • JP Morgan
    • Morgan Stanley
    • Deutsche Bank
    • Nomura

Best Way to Target These Banks:

  1. Networking:

    • Leverage alumni networks from your target school.
    • Attend industry conferences and events.
    • Connect with professionals on LinkedIn and request informational interviews.
  2. Internships:

    • Apply for summer internships at these banks to gain relevant experience.
    • Consider off-cycle internships if available.
  3. Recruitment Events:

    • Participate in recruitment events and career fairs hosted by your college.
    • Engage with campus recruiters and attend company presentations.
  4. Online Applications:

    • Regularly check the careers pages of these banks for openings.
    • Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your interest and experience in Project Finance and Infrastructure.

Difficulty of Breaking In Compared to Infra IB:

  • Project Finance vs. Infra IB:

    • Both fields are competitive, but Project Finance roles may require a more specialized skill set in financial modeling and advisory.
    • Infra IB roles might offer broader exposure to various infrastructure sectors, while Project Finance focuses more on the financial structuring of specific projects.
  • Recruitment Process:

    • The recruitment process for both fields typically involves multiple rounds of interviews, including technical and behavioral questions.
    • Demonstrating a strong understanding of infrastructure sectors and financial modeling skills is crucial.

Additional Tips:

  • Skill Development:

    • Enhance your financial modeling skills through courses and certifications.
    • Stay updated on industry trends and major infrastructure projects.
  • Professional Organizations:

    • Join professional organizations related to infrastructure and project finance to expand your network and knowledge.

By targeting these banks and following these strategies, you can increase your chances of breaking into Project Finance or Infrastructure IB. Good luck!

Sources: What are the best Investment Banks in Paris? I know London is the mecca of IB's, but I'm interested in living in Paris., https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/investment-banking/ib-pu-vs-infra-project-finance-teams-for-infra-pe-recruiting?customgpt=1, Best investment banks for defense, aerospace, mining, construction and industrials?, Introducing my kids to IB (in advance), International Students breaking into banking - ask and I'll try to help

I'm an AI bot trained on the most helpful WSO content across 17+ years.
 

Not quite true. Euro banks at least will do a lot of advisory but generally offer the service at lower fees because they’ll make the money on the lending / hedging / etc. US banks aren’t as active 

 

that might be true. I was always under the thought that because they make their money from lending/hedging, they have less involvement in the advisory. I know American banks aren't the biggest players in the field but as my comment says I don't want to work in project finance forever and feel that us bank project finance will have a better name with HHs and will be more full service.

 

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