Raymond James Reputation 2024?

Ignore title, I'm a current third year investmnet banking analyt at an SF tech boutique. Does anyone know what the lateral process for RJ boston looks like? I've heard good things about the shop, and I'm thinking of moving to the area. Is there a modeling test, how many rounds of interviews, is there a focus on technical questions. Anything would be helpful..

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Based on the most helpful WSO content, here's what you need to know about the lateral process for investment banking roles, which can be applied to firms like Raymond James in Boston:

  1. Interview Rounds:

    • The lateral process typically involves multiple rounds of interviews. For example, one user mentioned a process that included:
      • 1st round: Phone screen with VP/Director focusing on behavioral questions (e.g., why the firm, why leave current position, why the specific group).
      • 2nd round: A 45-minute case study with technical questions.
      • 3rd round: Additional interviews, possibly with more senior team members.
  2. Modeling Test:

    • A modeling test is often part of the lateral interview process. This can include various types of financial models such as LBO, DCF, and others. One user mentioned a modeling test that was part of a superday, which included an LBO, DCF, and other components all within one hour.
  3. Technical Questions:

    • Technical questions are a significant part of the interview process. These can be asked during different rounds, including the case study and modeling test. The focus can vary depending on the specific group and role.
  4. Networking:

    • Networking is crucial for a successful lateral move. Many lateral openings are not posted online, and firms often prefer to tap into their employees' connections. Building meaningful connections and getting referrals can significantly enhance your chances.
  5. Process Duration:

    • The duration of the lateral process can vary. Some processes are tightly run and can be completed in about three weeks from start to offer, while others might take longer, especially if there are delays in communication or additional rounds of interviews.

For more detailed insights, you might want to check out the WSO Academy's interview prep courses, which cover a wide range of topics including technical questions and modeling tests.

Sources: Guide to Lateraling in 2021, Guide to Lateraling in 2021, Lateral Hires - What were your interviews like?, How long was your lateral process ?, MM Analyst Looking to Lateral to BB/EB - Thoughts / Comments on Process?

I'm an AI bot trained on the most helpful WSO content across 17+ years.
 
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All secondhand, I don’t work there but I have had a few friends end up at various offices.

By and large, it’s a fine bank. If you have an offer, and you don’t have a compelling reason to NOT accept it, you should accept it.

RJ is known for running larger processes, and more of your job will involve project management than at other banks. Not due to a lack of talent, but you’ll often find different roles playing down a level because analysts may be overwhelmed with project related tasks like email logging or contact information gathering. As a result, associates may model more and VPs may be in PPT more.

Pay is fine, seems to be a black box as some years RJ is below street and some years they are above.

Culture is somewhat better than average, but of course depends on your teams. I don’t know which teams are good, but I have heard to avoid IND? Don’t take my word for it, others can respond. I have heard there is more of a southern vibe, which makes sense, but it’s more in that you’re going to find a greater SEC presence than anything else.

RJ’s exits are fine, too. The upside to the larger processes is you do get a lot of exposure to PE.

From what I’ve been told, RJ is more likely to be running an auction for a client than a targeted process. If being on 3 projects at once where your outreach list is 150+ candidates doesn’t scare you, then you should be alright.

 

Thanks, the day to day information is very helpful. By second hand accounts, do you know what the lateral process looks like for RJ boston? Current third year analyst at a tech boutique.

 

FWIW, I am an analyst here and my first couple of deals are running extremely targeted processes, complete opposite end of spectrum

 

This may just go to show how team matters a lot more than firm, but I have heard effectively the opposite about the RJ experience of what the other commenter laid out below. Targeted processes, focus on key deliverables, analysts are definitely taking the first cut of the model often, not a lot of administrative nonsense, analysts stretch into the traditional associate role earlier and have the opportunity to engage with client management due to relatively lean deal teams, etc.

Solid firm in my view, very mentorship-focused so makes for a quality junior experience.

 

Can confirm this as someone who was recruiting for SA25 - thought I had it in the bag, and then they ghosted me. 

 

Their internal recruiters are a joke and think RJ is GS

I’m an Associate 1 (4th year in IB) at a boutique that specializes in sell-side M&A within consumer. We only do sponsor backed sell-side M&A deals, and most are for sponsors like LCat, Freeman Spogli, Altamont, etc. This recruiter called me and asked what level I would expect to join another firm at if I were to make a move. She then proceeded to suggest that I would be an Analyst 1 / Analyst 2 at RJ 😂😂

 

Same thing happened with me as well. Not sure if that’s an RJ thing or if the market is so bad candidates are willing to drop back down multiple levels…

 

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