Well Paying WLB Jobs after IB?

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some well-paying options with better work-life balance (WLB) after a stint in IB/PE:

1. Corporate Development/Strategy

• WLB: Generally better than IB, with hours closer to 9-6.
• Pay: While it may not match PE, it’s still lucrative, especially at senior levels.
• Role: Focuses on M&A, strategic initiatives, and internal growth projects for a single company.

2. Venture Capital (VC)

• WLB: Better than PE, though it can vary by firm.
• Pay: High potential, especially if you rise to partner level and earn carry.
• Role: Involves evaluating startups, networking, and helping portfolio companies grow. It’s intellectually stimulating but may require relocation to hubs like SF.

3. Real Estate Investing

• WLB: Can be flexible, especially if you transition to managing your own portfolio.
• Pay: High potential, especially if you build enough capital to invest independently.
• Role: Offers autonomy and control over your time, with opportunities to scale income through property investments.

4. Investment Management

• WLB: Typically 8-6/7, with less stress compared to IB.
• Pay: Competitive, especially at senior levels.
• Role: Focuses on managing portfolios and client relationships, offering stability and long-term growth.

5. Corporate Banking

• WLB: Significantly better than IB, with hours around 9-6.
• Pay: MDs can make $1MM+, and the work is less intense.
• Role: Involves lending and relationship management, with a strong sales component.

6. Big 4 Consulting or Accounting

• WLB: Consulting averages 55-65 hours, while accounting has seasonal peaks but is otherwise 9-5.
• Pay: Partners in Big 4 firms can earn substantial salaries.
• Role: Offers stability and a clear path to senior roles.

7. Tech (e.g., Software Engineering or Product Management)

• WLB: Typically 9-5, with flexibility in many roles.
• Pay: Top tech companies offer compensation packages that can rival or exceed finance roles.
• Role: Provides a creative and innovative environment, with opportunities to work on cutting-edge projects.

8. Private Wealth Management (PWM)

• WLB: Better than IB, with hours around 9-5.
• Pay: High earning potential, especially if you build a strong client base.
• Role: Focuses on managing wealth for high-net-worth individuals, offering a relationship-driven career.

Final Thoughts:

You’re right to focus on IB first, as it opens doors to these opportunities. While PE and HF are natural exits, they often come with similar WLB challenges. If family time becomes a priority later, transitioning to roles like corporate development, VC, or real estate investing can provide a balance between high pay and personal life.

Sources: The Efficient Career Hypothesis: Almost All Jobs Are Priced In, IB vs PE Pay Progression in Canada, IBD: Easy high paid exit ops, The logic behind going into a Corp Dev/Strat for work-life balance?, Tech is over exaggerated here