Exits from being a recruiter (London)
Struck out completely for recruiting this year. Final year student at a solid semi-target with 2 LMM IB M&A internships (no path to return/no-name shops who are too small for FT hires), also some AM exp. Goal is anything IB or IB-adjacent (ER/S&T/AM/HF/PE/Credit etc). Got an offer from a very well respected but niche executive search agency for a grad role, considering doing it for a year to save and apply to a target Msc Finance after a year. Pay is very attractive for executive search standards, and definitely better than anything I can scramble to land re: grad roles at this point.
Anyone ever done this? Ik I can apply to off-cycles for a year etc, but am I suiciding my career if I do this instead for a year before undertaking a Msc Finance and re-recruiting then? Anyone ever moved from executive search? FYI the role is branded as a research position for the industry this firm covers. Would love some insight. Cheers.
It’s branded as a research position? That’s actually decent - some recruiters (for when you reapply) would have no idea you’re in recruitment if they don’t recognise the brand name, so you actually might have your CV put through a few times.
With that said, it’s absolutely not an ideal pivot to go from actual M&A experience to executive search. If someone’s reading your CV they would be able to tell you struck out. It’s also not the end of the world - I actually came across someone recently who did an industrial placement in recruitment then broke into IB for his SA.
My advice would be to still keep on the lookout for relevant IB/PE off-cycle roles and grind hard if you get any interviews. If the alternative is unemployment then obviously take the recruitment role as I’m sure you can spin it into something decent in your CV.
Thanks—that’s honestly more encouraging than I expected. The role is essentially branded as sector research, and if I go down that route, I’d hope to position it as a broader sector research role. In the meantime, I’ll keep applying to off-cycle opportunities as I approach a decision deadline.
What are your thoughts on pursuing a part-time MSc in Finance while working there—at a target like LSE, for example, which offers the degree over two years with the same credential as the full-time program? If I land a summer analyst or off-cycle role, I could always leave and pursue the MSc full-time. But if not, I’d be in a stronger financial position while recruiting. Would this approach be seen as a disadvantage from a recruiter’s perspective, compared to taking a more traditional path—stepping away for a year to study full-time and recruit?
Based on the most helpful WSO content, taking the executive search role for a year could be a strategic move, especially if the firm is well-respected and the pay is attractive. Here's why:
Rebranding Opportunity with MSc Finance: A strong MSc Finance program at a target school can significantly bolster your profile, giving you another shot at IB or IB-adjacent roles. Many candidates have successfully used this route to pivot into front-office finance roles.
Executive Search as a Stepping Stone: While executive search isn't a traditional path to IB, it can provide valuable industry exposure, networking opportunities, and insights into hiring trends. If the role is research-focused, you might gain transferable skills like market analysis, client interaction, and understanding of deal-making processes.
Off-Cycle Recruiting: During your year in executive search, you can still apply for off-cycle internships. These are often less competitive than traditional graduate roles and can serve as a direct entry point into IB or related fields.
Not Career Suicide: Many professionals have transitioned from non-traditional roles into IB or adjacent fields, especially with a strong academic rebranding (like an MSc Finance). The key is to articulate your story well—how the executive search role enhanced your understanding of the industry and prepared you for a front-office role.
Networking: Leverage the executive search role to build connections within the industry. This could open doors to opportunities that might not be accessible otherwise.
In summary, taking the executive search role isn't "suiciding" your career. If anything, it can be a calculated move to regroup, save, and rebrand yourself with a strong MSc Finance program. Just ensure you stay proactive with networking and off-cycle applications during this time.
Sources: https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/investment-banking/m7-ib-associate-full-time-recruiting?customgpt=1, Move from back office to middle office to front office, Have I messed up my future?, Profile Evaluation - MSc Finance, Miserable in consulting, how to improve situation?
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