Pulling forward a bonus? Partial bonus?

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some strategies you can consider to navigate your tricky situation:

1. Discuss Bonus Timing with PE Firm:

   • Communicate Bonus Timing: Talk to the PE firm about your bonus timing and see if they can offer some flexibility on your start date. This might give you a couple of weeks of wiggle room to ensure you receive your bonus from your current firm.
   • Negotiate for Bonus Compensation: Although the PE firm is firm on not giving you anything extra, it’s worth revisiting the topic. Sometimes persistence can pay off, and they might reconsider if you explain the situation thoroughly.

2. Partial Bonus Payout:

   • Request Partial Bonus: Given your good relationship with the founder and the COO/CFO, you could ask for a partial bonus payout after the smaller deal closes. This might raise some suspicion, but if you frame it as a need for immediate financial stability, it might be more palatable.
   • Offer Extended Notice Period: When giving your notice, offer to stick around for a bit longer to help with the transition. This could be an incentive for them to pay out part of your bonus early, as your continued presence would be beneficial for the firm.

3. Review Confidentiality and Non-Compete Agreements:

   • Understand Legal Implications: Before making any moves, read and re-read your confidentiality agreement and non-compete clauses. This will help you understand what your current firm can legally enforce, such as clawing back past bonuses or enforcing a notice period.

4. Exit Strategy:

   • Prepare for Transition: Invest time in sealing off your work to leave the position in good shape for your replacement. This includes writing how-to guides, checklists of recurring responsibilities, and organizing critical files.
   • Maintain Professionalism: Keep your exit interview professional and avoid burning bridges. This industry is small, and maintaining good relationships is crucial.

5. Negotiation Tactics:

   • Flexible Payment Options: If you’re leaving before bonus time, ask your new employer for a signing bonus that compensates for the lost bonus. This is an industry norm and can be negotiated.
   • Revisit Negotiations: If the PE firm says no initially, it doesn’t mean they won’t reconsider later. Stay at the table in the negotiating process and revisit the topic after you have signed.

By following these strategies, you can navigate your transition more smoothly and potentially secure some of your bonus before leaving your current firm.

Sources: How to leave your IB analyst job?, Minimum Time Before Lateralling?, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/job-search/negotiating-offer-before-during-and-after-interview-follow-up?customgpt=1, Leaving for another fund - How to deal with current employer?, 2 successful years at the firm, 2 years of 0 bonus and minimal pay rise