Public finance recruiting

Currently gunning for a SA for PF. 
1. Who is still recruiting besides Raymond James and stifel.. please give me some ideas!
2. What do the prelim interviews look at 

3. What’s the 1st year payout for MM

4. Are target schools shoe ins if you have a previous BB SA

2 Comments
 
  1. Who is still recruiting besides Raymond James and Stifel?
    Based on the most helpful WSO content, firms like Piper Jaffray, Baird, Oppenheimer, Cowen, BMO Capital Markets, and Stephens, Inc. are often mentioned in the context of middle-market (MM) recruiting. While specific timelines for public finance (PF) roles aren't detailed, these firms are worth exploring for opportunities. Additionally, keep an eye on regional boutiques and specialized PF firms, as they may have ongoing recruitment.

  2. What do the preliminary interviews look at?
    Preliminary interviews for public finance roles typically focus on:

    • Technical Skills: Basic financial modeling, understanding of municipal bonds, and public finance structures.
    • Behavioral Questions: Your motivation for pursuing public finance, teamwork experiences, and problem-solving abilities.
    • Market Knowledge: Awareness of current trends in public finance, such as infrastructure funding or municipal debt markets.
    • Fit Questions: Why you’re interested in the firm and how your background aligns with their focus.
  3. What’s the 1st-year payout for MM?
    For middle-market firms, the first-year analyst compensation typically ranges around $94,000 to $95,000, as seen in WSO reports. This includes base salary and potential bonuses, though exact figures can vary by firm and location.

  4. Are target schools shoe-ins if you have a previous BB SA?
    Having a previous bulge bracket (BB) summer analyst experience is a significant advantage, especially when combined with a target school background. However, being a "shoe-in" depends on how well you perform in interviews, your networking efforts, and how effectively you communicate your interest in public finance. While target schools and BB experience open doors, they don’t guarantee offers without strong execution.

    Sources: Public Finance Recruiting and Interviewing, Q&A: Public Finance Recruiting and Interviewing, Public Finance Investment Banking Information, Public Finance Q's, Consulting firms that have given interns guaranteed FT offers

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