What happens to the people who don't make it after IB?

I'm talking about all the people that go into IB, but don't get promoted or move to PE. It seems like everyone wants to become a partner in private equity, but there is no chance there are enough spots at the top for as many analysts that exist. So what happens to all the people that don't get keep getting promoted to partner? Are they stuck as IB VPs forever? If they career change, where do they go if they can't get into PE/HF? I'm not personally in IB, so kinda clueless. Thanks!

7 Comments
 

There are so many options for people who don't get promoted internally... and I have seen almost all combinations

1) external move and try it there

2) go the consulting route, either through a real consultancy or contracting through their own company

3) literally open up shop and do something different on their own

4) they get a job in the industry or somewhat related to what they have done before. CFO roles might fit, Head of M&A, strategy directorships, etc  lots of option, great WLB and package could be nice also?

 

Exactly. Not every business out there must be listed on wall street and only handles billion dollar deals.

I have seen so many ex bankers retire in some beach community like Newport and just help local companies on a much smaller scale. Even the lowest buckets from a BB could easily do that and still make bank.

Same for becoming a freelance consultant - there are so many M&A contracts available for very high daily rates - and the clients have no clue whats going on either way. It is easy to give advice on strategy, structure a deal and then move onto a new client.

I am not saying these steps involve no risk, but if the spouse also has a job or the house is paid for... it might work out OK.

 

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