Breaking into MM IB from Big 4/Industry with 4 YOE?
Hi WSO,
I would really appreciate any insight for my career! I spent 4 years in Big 4 within the assurance practice and then into deal advisory. I've always wanted to break into an MM IB at the analyst/associate level but haven't been able to find an opportunity. I left my firm for a Senior Financial Analyst role at a Fortune 500 Company and am looking to pivot my career.
I've reached out to recruiters and professionals on Linkedin, and applied cold, but haven't had much luck. Would anyone be able to offer guidance? It's always been a dream role for me and would really give it my all in the field.
Hey there!
First off, kudos to you for your determination and persistence. It's not an easy journey, but your drive will definitely help you get there.
Based on the most helpful WSO content, transitioning from Big 4 into IB is quite common and feasible. The work done, especially by junior roles in Big 4 firms, is highly valued in IB, and many of the skills are transferable to a junior IB analyst role.
Here are a few tips that might help you:
Networking: Continue reaching out to professionals in the field. It's all about who you know in this industry. Attend networking events, webinars, and try to get introductions from mutual connections.
Leverage your current role: Use your current position to gain relevant skills and experience that can be transferred to an IB role. This could be anything from financial modeling, valuation, or even soft skills like client management.
Education: Consider furthering your education. An MBA, particularly from a target school, could significantly boost your chances.
Recruiters: Keep in touch with recruiters and let them know you're actively looking. They often have access to opportunities that aren't advertised.
Preparation: Make sure you're ready for the technical aspects of IB interviews. WSO has some great resources for this, including the Investment Banking Prep and Behavioral Techniques courses.
Remember, it's a marathon, not a sprint. Keep pushing, and I'm sure you'll land that dream role in no time. Good luck!
Sources: Accounting major, can't seem to break into IB, Q&A: Big 4 to MM IB, Q&A: Big 4 Consulting to Lower MM IB to MM IB (No MBA)., Part Time MBA Break Into IB
Hey there!
First off, kudos to you for your determination and persistence. It's not an easy journey, but your passion for the field is clear and that's half the battle won.
Based on the most helpful WSO content, it seems like you're on the right track. Networking is key in this industry, so continue reaching out to professionals and recruiters. It's a numbers game, so the more people you connect with, the higher your chances of landing an interview.
Also, consider leveraging your Big 4 experience. Many have successfully transitioned from Big 4 to MM IB, as the skills acquired in Big 4 are highly transferable to a junior IB analyst role.
Another route you might want to consider is getting an MBA. Some have found success breaking into IB after obtaining their MBA, even from a non-target school.
Lastly, don't forget to keep refining your technical skills. The WSO Academy offers a range of courses that can help you brush up on your investment banking knowledge.
Remember, it's a marathon, not a sprint. Keep pushing and I'm sure you'll land your dream role soon. Good luck!
Sources: Accounting major, can't seem to break into IB, Q&A: Big 4 to MM IB, Q&A: Big 4 Consulting to Lower MM IB to MM IB (No MBA)., Part Time MBA Break Into IB
The move from B4 happens quite often into MM IB, makes it more difficult I'd say that you went to F500 - jumpy on CV and might get the impression you don't know what you want. I would suggest looking at local boutiques as you should get good traction with them, can always go from boutique to MM IB quite easily when hiring conditions improve... its a tricky IB market at the moment for anyone so don't look into it too much.
Thank you for the info! Would leaving it off my resume be wise if I’ve only been in for about a month?
It's a tricky one - I did that to when I was recruiting for banking because it made the resume look cleaner, but you must mention at the beginning of any interviews you did take up a position elsewhere and have a response ready for why you chose that opportunity etc... I wouldn't recommend chancing it and hoping they don't find out about the new position because they will.
Thanks for the honest advice, I took the role to have an income and not have a gap on my resume when I left my old firm, but do you have any suggestions on how to handle that in a more professional manner?
Et nihil facilis assumenda numquam occaecati dolores. Maiores sed molestiae eos. Voluptatem et ut perspiciatis.
Voluptatem ut non neque molestiae quis eos. Ea quibusdam voluptate maiores. Placeat illum dignissimos rerum.
See All Comments - 100% Free
WSO depends on everyone being able to pitch in when they know something. Unlock with your email and get bonus: 6 financial modeling lessons free ($199 value)
or Unlock with your social account...