Advice Required!

Hi,

I am currently looking for my first investment role. I am determined to break into the industry but am uncertain regarding what roles I would be most suitable for and which organisations to target.

I am Irish, 25 years of age and currently work in the corporate finance departments of one of the Big 4 in Dublin.

I attended an Irish university that is highly regarded domestically but would not be well known internationally. I have a BA in Accounting and Finance (GPA 3.5) and a Masters in Accounting from this institution.

I completed a 3 year graduate programme as an auditor focused on the construction and engineering sector and laterly financial services (hedge funds and spv's). I qualified as a Chartered Accountant (UK and Ireland equivalent of CPA) in late 2010, achieving the highest grade in my firm in the final exams.

I have also completed all three CFA exams, passing each level at the first attempt between Dec 2009 and June this year.

I have been in my current role for the last 2 months while I was waiting for my final CFA result but now that is secured I want to make the transition to an investment role asap.

Given my background and the research I have done I feel that my best prospects would be in M&A or equity/debt research roles. Am I correct in this assumption?

Given that I am 4 years out of university will my applications be entertained for analyst level positions? Are there other routes I can pursue for entry-level positions?

Also, given my academic and employment history I am completely in the dark with regard to what is realistic for me in terms of the type of employer I should target.

As an Irish citizen I have freedom to work anywhere in the EU and I also am entitled to a 1 year Visa for the USA. Accordingly I am focusing on London and New York as potential destinations for me. My preference would be New York but I will go anywhere really for a good opportunity.

I have given some though to taking the GMAT and possibly pursuing an MBA if I can get admitted to a reputable school but I would prefer to get at least a couple of years good work experience before going this route.

I would appreciate any advice or guidance.