I quit my IB job, but not can’t really find anything outside IB lol.
Any idea where I should be directing my search ? Have a background in Tech and Real Estate, and I’m interested in a more relax role (not 90 hour weeks…) with not as much modeling.
I’ve been looking at PERE, AM / RE AM, Corp Fin, Strategy, FPA.
What else is there out there ? Would ideally want to work for a F500, not a Financial Institution.
Cheers !!
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Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some potential directions you can explore given your background in Tech and Real Estate, and your preference for a more relaxed role with better work-life balance:
Corporate Development/Strategy: This is a great option for ex-IB professionals. It involves executing M&A transactions and capital-raising, but with significantly better hours (typically 9-5). Working for a Fortune 500 company in this capacity could align well with your goals.
Real Estate Asset Management (RE AM): With your Real Estate background, RE AM could be a natural fit. It offers a tangible connection to your work and generally better hours compared to IB. Plus, it’s a field where you can leverage your existing expertise.
Strategic Finance/FP&A: These roles at startups or large corporations (F500) are less intense than IB and focus on financial planning, budgeting, and strategy. They’re a good fit for someone looking to stay analytical without the grueling hours.
Private Equity Real Estate (PERE): This could be a middle ground between your IB and Real Estate experience. While it might still involve some modeling, the hours are generally more manageable than traditional PE.
Tech Product Management (PM): Given your tech background, transitioning into a PM role in a tech company could be a great option. It’s less finance-heavy but still strategic and impactful.
Fintech Roles: If you’re interested in staying connected to finance but in a more innovative space, fintech companies (e.g., payments, PFM, lending) could be worth exploring. These roles often combine tech and finance expertise.
Corporate Finance in Non-Financial Institutions: Many F500 companies have robust corporate finance teams where you can work on capital allocation, budgeting, and financial strategy without the intensity of IB.
Entrepreneurship: If you have a high risk tolerance, starting your own venture could be rewarding. Your IB and Real Estate background could help you secure funding and build connections.
Consulting: Strategy consulting could be another avenue, especially if you enjoy advising companies on capital structures or strategy. While the hours can be demanding, they’re often more predictable than IB.
Real Estate Development: This could be a fulfilling path if you want to stay connected to Real Estate but in a more operational and creative capacity.
Each of these options offers a mix of better hours, decent pay, and opportunities to leverage your existing skills. Networking and tailoring your story to highlight transferable skills will be key in making the transition.
Sources: Lesser known MBA career options? Looking for advice on what to do post-HBS., https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/investment-banking/not-sure-if-investment-banking-is-for-me-anymore?customgpt=1, Breakdown of Post-IB Exit Opportunities, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/real-estate/whats-with-all-the-ibpe-bros-asking-about-cre?customgpt=1, Banking -> Startup PM on who SHOULD join IB
There is nothing else out there
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