After a 2-year analyst stint, would it be possible to transition from that directly into an F500 FLDP, or would you need to take the IB --> MBA --> FLDP path?
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Why would you go FLDP as opposed to making a lateral move? It'd make more sense to go IB to Treasuary or corp dev. Post MBA there are far fewer FLDP than post-BA.
Horrible answer, I know. But that's why I'm here to solicit thoughts and advice.
But why would you go back 2+ years in career progression? Post-IB you're looking at SFA type positions, maybe manager with some luck, who in their right mind would want to start from scratch. It makes no sense and at some point you'll always be the new guy. You can create your own career development network by being proactive, network like hell internally. Reach out to senior folks, volunteer for international assignments.
Why have you chosen to start over several times at a junior level? At some point you have to stick it out. Just figure out what you want.
fldps are, generally, entry level positions. However, there are companies who have MBA level fldps. I would look into those companies and see if you can get into the post MBA level rotational program. If not, you should move into a Corp Dev role and not go back to an entry level FLDP. Most companies have an "emerging leaders" or something similar program for young promising people so if you move into a Corp Dev role and want a little more exposure to things outside Corp Dev you can look into that. And depending on the company many of them really encourage internal mobility anyways so you could easily make your own path.
Also to the person who said you could become a Manager at a F500 post an analyst stint in IB... that isn't happening. He'll have to come in as an SFA/Associate first.
It doesn't make a lot of sense unless they have a specific MBA FLDP, which a lot of companies do. Even then, you'd already be qualified for positions that the graduating FLDP's would be interviewing for.
@everyone else: thanks for your advice! You're right - makes no sense to take a step backwards to entry-level analyst. I'll give it some thought to see whether I feel more comfortable doing the MBA or doing the lateral move. Leaning towards the latter, with perhaps a company (partially-)sponsored MBA in the future to move up the ladder.
Still trying to figure things out, but hey, who knows at 23 what they'll end up doing at 40, right?
You can PROBABLY make your way into an MBA level FLDP without an actual MBA. But it'll take some work and networking, IMO. Or like I said before, lateral into Corp Dev and make your own rotations after that. Lots of companies (Amex is one that comes to mind) actually encourages people to move roles every 18-24 months.
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