What’s Worth Chasing After IB?

If you're looking for a career path post-IB that combines pay, ownership, and meaningful responsibility, here are some options based on the most helpful WSO content:

1. Entrepreneurship

• Starting your own business, as you’ve already experienced in college, could be the most fulfilling option. Many ex-bankers leverage their IB/PE networks to secure funding or partnerships for their ventures. However, it’s a high-risk, high-reward path. Success often takes years of uncertainty, but the upside can be immense in terms of both financial and personal fulfillment.

2. Corporate Development

• Corporate Development roles at Fortune 500 companies or startups offer a mix of strategic influence and operational involvement. You’ll work on M&A, partnerships, and strategic initiatives, often with better work-life balance than IB. It’s a great way to have a direct impact on a business without the grind of banking.

3. Strategic Finance/FP&A at Startups

• Joining a startup in a strategic finance or FP&A role can give you exposure to diverse responsibilities, from fundraising to scaling operations. While the pay might initially be lower than PE or hedge funds, the equity upside and the chance to shape a growing company can be highly rewarding.

4. Private Equity (with a Twist)

• While you mentioned PE feels "dead," consider smaller, entrepreneurial PE firms or growth equity shops. These often provide more hands-on involvement with portfolio companies, allowing you to influence strategy and operations directly.

5. Venture Capital

• If you’re passionate about startups and innovation, VC could be a great fit. It offers the chance to work closely with founders, evaluate new business models, and help scale companies. However, breaking into VC often requires networking and demonstrating a strong understanding of the startup ecosystem.

6. Big Tech or Product Management

• Transitioning into a product management role at a tech company can offer a mix of ownership and creativity. Big Tech roles often come with strong compensation packages and opportunities to lead impactful projects.

7. MBA and Career Pivot

• While the MBA route is less popular than it used to be, it can still be a valuable way to pivot into roles like consulting, strategy, or even entrepreneurship. However, weigh the opportunity cost carefully, as you’ll forgo a high-paying job and incur tuition expenses.

8. Hedge Funds

• If you enjoy the analytical and technical aspects of finance, hedge funds can be lucrative. However, the work is highly demanding, and success depends on your ability to generate consistent returns.

Final Thoughts:

Given your entrepreneurial background and desire for meaningful responsibility, paths like entrepreneurship, VC, or strategic roles at startups seem like a natural fit. These options align with your ambition to have ownership and influence while still offering financial upside. If you’re unsure, consider networking with professionals in these fields to gain more clarity.

Sources: Breakdown of Post-IB Exit Opportunities, Q&A: Former MBB Consultant, Banking -> Startup PM on who SHOULD join IB