Career Help
First time poster here seeking some advice for my early career.
A bit of info about me - I’ve just graduated from a non-target with a high GPA (one of the highest from cohort of students), and am sitting my CFA L1 in May. I’ve always been interested in finance, primarily IB, ER, PWM (was late at realising this so I missed graduate and intern recruiting).
In my final year of study I was working in Ops at one of the larger PWM firms in my country, and there was clear development pathways into the front office advisory route. Recently I was offered a role as an associate working for the largest and best performing advisor desk at our firm (extremely rare opportunity, management labelled it setting up for life), which to me seems like it would take a huge risk out of PWM of building your own book (as I’d eventually be taking on lower clients of the desk). This move however would have me moving cities leaving behind a GF, Family, and friends.
Obviously with this kind of move I would want to be sticking true to PWM for a career, as the usual concerns about lack of developing technical skills worry me if 5 years down the line I want out. I’ve been networking a lot in my current city within IB and ER, and do think something will come soon, however, there is no guarantee. I am stuck between turning down this opportunity (and potentially a great career in PWM), or continuing my current method of networking and CFA to hopefully break into ER/IB (leaving me stuck in Ops until I break out). The other option is to also wait for an associate role in my current city at the firm, however, the desk I’d be working on would most likely be riskier.
Any insights from others who have been in a similar spot would be much appreciated.
Based on the highest ranked content on WSO, here are some insights that might help you navigate your early career decision:
Weighing the PWM Opportunity:
Considering Location and Personal Life:
Technical Skills and Future Flexibility:
Networking and Breaking into IB/ER:
Risk vs. Reward:
Seeking Further Advice:
Remember, there's no one-size-fits-all answer. It's about aligning the opportunity with your personal goals, values, and the lifestyle you envision for yourself. Whatever you decide, ensure it's a step towards what you ultimately want to achieve in your career and life.
Sources: Q&A: Incoming PWM Graduate, 3 Key Tips for Getting an ER Interview, The right time to lateral?, Non-Target to MM IB: My Advice, Transitioning Veteran Advice Please
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