Should I just do the nepotism path?

So I’m an An2, 1.5 years in to TMT M&A at the moment. I was grinding for PE and got close to superdays and then I thought about it more about the vision for the next decade of my life, and talking to friends and working with people on that side of the table doesn’t seem that great outside the pay. 
 

My dad is a C suite for a public company in a tangential vertical (tech generally), and I’m confident I could come in for a strategic finance/ops role (corp dev also is possible), do that for 2-3 years and then go for an MBA. This seems like a path that could lead me to corporate executive leadership in a shorter amount of time, while also being less painful than gunning for PE senior roles. I also could do MBB consulting after my MBA potentially. I thought about why I was hesitant, and I realize my reasons are not really rational and this is a pretty great path for me unique circumstances. I want to stay in banking for 2.5-3 years though to show I had enough of a brain to survive independently before getting hired by my dad. Also would present me the opportunity to rotate globally given the scale of the company most likely. Thoughts?

7 Comments
 

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some insights and considerations for your situation:

  1. Career Path and Vision:

    • Corporate Executive Leadership: Transitioning to a strategic finance/ops role in your dad's company could indeed fast-track your path to corporate executive leadership. This path might offer a more balanced lifestyle compared to the demanding nature of PE roles.
    • MBA and Consulting: After gaining experience in the corporate role, pursuing an MBA could open doors to MBB consulting, which is another prestigious and rewarding career path.
  2. Experience and Credibility:

    • Staying in Banking: Completing 2.5-3 years in banking will demonstrate your capability and independence, which is valuable for your credibility. It shows that you can thrive without relying on nepotism.
    • Global Rotation: The opportunity to rotate globally within your dad's company can provide diverse experiences and a broader perspective, which are beneficial for future leadership roles.
  3. Rational Decision-Making:

    • Unique Circumstances: Your hesitation might stem from concerns about perceptions of nepotism. However, leveraging your unique circumstances can be a strategic move if it aligns with your long-term career goals.
    • Less Painful Path: The corporate route might be less grueling compared to the PE track, allowing you to achieve a high level of success without the intense pressure and long hours associated with PE.
  4. Exit Opportunities:

    • Corporate Strategy and Development: Roles in corporate strategy and development can lead to significant exit opportunities, including executive leadership positions.
    • Consulting: Post-MBA consulting roles, especially with MBB, are highly regarded and can further enhance your career trajectory.

In summary, leveraging your dad's position for a strategic role, followed by an MBA and potential consulting opportunities, seems like a well-thought-out plan. It balances gaining independent experience with utilizing available resources to accelerate your career.

Sources: https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/consulting/should-consultants-get-an-mba-8-scenarios-to-consider?customgpt=1, Corporate Finance/Strategy jobs with great repuations?, Am I Thinking About an MBA Wrong?, Checking in 6 years later [IB to MBB transition], Q&A: MBB, BB S&T+IB, Top MBA, US/Global

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

If you're having doubts about it and are more focused on having a solid lifestyle than maxing total career EV, yes, you should do this.

Really you should just ask your dad what he thinks you should do - "Hey dad, I'm considering how to go about getting the best learning experiences now to set myself up to have your level of impact in my career. What do you see as the pros/cons of sticking in high finance vs. getting operating experience in the tech industry at this stage?"

 

You have to play the cards you're dealt, and I (and anyone sane) would do the same if they were in your shoes. If the c-suite route is the one you want to pursue, don't let the "nepo baby" tag deter you, that's a label created by jealous people who would do the same exact thing if given the opportunity. Make your life the best it can be

 

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