Misrepresented Role. What do I do?

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here's how you can approach your situation:

1. Assess the Role and Culture:
   It's clear that the work-life balance (WLB) in your current role is not aligning with what was communicated during the hiring process. While it's good that you're giving it 1-2 months to confirm if this is the norm, it’s important to evaluate whether the role offers any long-term benefits that might outweigh the current workload. If not, it’s reasonable to start exploring other opportunities.

2. FP&A Manager as an Option:
   FP&A roles are often highlighted as a solid choice for professionals seeking better WLB while maintaining a competitive compensation package. Based on WSO threads, FP&A managers typically work 40-45 hours per week, with occasional spikes during budgeting or quarterly reporting periods. Compensation for experienced professionals with an IB background can meet or exceed your $150k all-in target, especially at larger companies or in industries like tech or financial services.

3. Timing Your Exit:

   • If you can tolerate the current role for 6 months, it may be worth staying to avoid raising red flags on your resume. This will also give you time to leverage your new title and responsibilities when recruiting for your next role.
   • However, if the culture is unbearable and you’re confident in your ability to secure a better role, you could start recruiting immediately. In this case, you might consider leaving the current role off your resume, especially if your tenure is very short.

4. Alternative Career Paths:
   Beyond FP&A, other roles that align with your WLB and compensation goals include:

   • Corporate Development at a less intense company: Some corp dev teams, especially at non-PE-backed firms, offer better hours and a more predictable workload.
   • Strategy or Business Intelligence roles: These often combine analytical skills with strategic thinking and can offer a good balance of compensation and lifestyle.
   • Internal Consulting or Finance Transformation: These roles can leverage your IB experience while offering more manageable hours.

5. Recruiting Strategy:

   • Start networking discreetly and leverage platforms like LinkedIn and WSO to identify companies with a reputation for strong WLB.
   • Tailor your resume to highlight transferable skills from IB and your current role, focusing on deal experience, financial modeling, and strategic insights.
   • Consider reaching out to FP&A managers or corp dev professionals on WSO for mentorship or advice on transitioning.

6. Final Thoughts:
   Your IB experience gives you a strong foundation to pivot into roles with better WLB. FP&A is a great option, but don’t limit yourself—explore other corporate finance or strategy roles that align with your priorities. If you decide to leave your current role quickly, be prepared to explain the misalignment professionally during interviews.

Good luck!

Sources: What I Learned From Lying On My Resume, I Got Screwed With My Internship Placement, Can I Ask to Switch Roles or Am I Fucked?, Corporate Development Manager - Q&A, RESCINDED FT Analyst Offer, Q&A: FP&A Manager at a Technology Start-up