Traits of career bankers

Charisma and great big picture skills.

Discipline and work ethic

Taking on responsibility, intellectual curiosity, meeting deadlines

I've thought about this topic quite a bit.  I honestly think the biggest factor in your ability to be a successful senior banker is your ability to capitalize on the opportunities you have to make a good impression on clients you've done work for as an Associate, VP and Director.  Getting staffed on big/notable deals for clients at those levels provides you some access to/visibility to the C-Suite and other senior leaders.  Careers are long and these people are likely to end up in positions (other C-suites, board members, etc.) where they can advocate for you when you are a Managing Director hustling to win business.  Obviously by that time you need to be polished and know your shit but honestly, I think without getting that exposure to good (i.e. people who are likely to advance there careers to the top) clients as a mid-level employee, you can be the hardest working, smartest and best salesman in the world but if no one knows you, its tough to get in front of people and generate business.

Ability to bend over and spread 'em for the rest of your career for the long dick of your superiors and clients in a never-ending train with no caboose. 

how different are the traits and abilities required for senior bankers vs senior pe professionals? A lot of the comments above seem general to any senior professional, big picture thinking, charisma, good work ethic, leader, etc.

Willingness to wife swap to clients

Access to top quality yayo 

Can manage good benders to the hamptons with strippers and hookers

All of these things can make you a good md (probably run a healthcare team at a minmum)