Boutique ER -> MM ER Options

Hey WSO,

I am choosing between a couple of options right now as I move up from a smaller off-the-street shop to a more reputable MM. I can take positions in SF or NY, and my potential sectors are in healthcare and non-banks FIG. I'm choosing between two firms at this point, and I would define them both as middle market, as in RBC/Jefferies/Blair/Cowen/Opco.

My 5-year plan is to be at a multi-sector L/S or a spec sits/event driven value fund, investing across the capital structure. I think my best bet is to attempt buy side recruiting out of this next place, or make another hop to a top BB/II-ranked analyst after 2 years and try from there. I understand that a lot depends on the analysts I'd work with. I really want the best shot possible at the buy side, and I'm weighing 1) location, 2) sector (I don't want to be pigeonholed into FIG, even though I wouldn't be covering banks), and 3) employer rep. Can anyone shed some light on these things?

I've used the search function and have read other reviews for the places I'm looking, and they haven't been really helpful given my future plans. Thanks.

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