Roast my CV/ realistic IB options

Hello

I am a 2023 Master of Finance from a top UK university trying to break into IB. As part of the MFin, I gained experience in Energy Project Finance. I also did 3y in Economic Advisory from a small Latin American country. I have experience in DCF and multiples valuations, macro research, and forecasting. Economics Undergrad, 3.9 GPA. No IB internships. No work visa sponsorship for UK roles.

I have been applying for an internship/analyst role for the last 9 months, but I have not been successful yet. From close to 400 applications, I made it to 8 first-round interviews, and 3 final stage interviews, with no offers.

Please check my CV and comment on any red flags or potential things I could do to make it better to land an offer.

https://shorturl.at/yCDFN

Since all entry-level recruiting is going to 2024, I am wondering if it would be best to return to my home country and gain IB/PE experience. Would this be a better option to land a UK/EU IB role in the future, or am I destroying that career path?

Thanks all

2 Comments
 

Hey there!

First off, kudos to you for your persistence. It's not easy to keep going after so many applications, but remember, it only takes one yes!

Now, let's talk about your CV. I can't directly access the link you provided, but based on your description, it sounds like you have a solid background. Your experience in Economic Advisory and Energy Project Finance, along with your strong academic record, should make you a competitive candidate.

However, there are a few things you might want to consider:

  1. Tailoring your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to each role you apply for. Highlight the most relevant skills and experiences that align with the job description.

  2. Quantifying achievements: Wherever possible, try to quantify your achievements. For example, instead of saying "Performed DCF and multiples valuations", you could say "Performed DCF and multiples valuations for over 20 projects, contributing to an X% increase in efficiency".

  3. Networking: Networking is key in the finance industry. Try to reach out to professionals in the industry, attend events, and make connections. This could potentially lead to referrals, which can significantly boost your chances.

As for your question about returning to your home country, it's a tough call. Gaining IB/PE experience there could indeed make you a more attractive candidate for UK/EU roles in the future. However, it's also important to consider factors like the market conditions in your home country, the opportunities available, and your personal preferences.

Remember, there's no one-size-fits-all answer here. It's about finding the path that works best for you. Keep going, and don't lose hope. You've got this!

Sources: CV Review - please rip my CV apart, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/resume/cv-review-for-sa2021-london?customgpt=1

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