Where to go from here? Feeling lost

Currently at a non-BB balance sheet (MUFG, HSBC, SMBC) type bank working in the corporate banking coversahe team. Get a healthy dose of experience working corporate banking with some IB exposure given the nature of the companies we deal with. I always thought I’d lateral to IB at my bank or at the institutions I’ve been networking heavily at, but I’m slowly starting to realize that I have 0 interest in IB/PE. I feel like my entire life has been dedicated to getting into those roles and I’m just now realizing I don’t really want it, and I’m feeling lost. I enjoy banking, and credit, but I don’t know where to go. I guess maybe move to CB at BB? Idk. Any insights from anyone that hasn’t gone the traditional route?

3 Comments
 

Hey there, it sounds like you're at a crossroads, and that's okay! It's not uncommon to question your path, especially in a field as diverse as finance.

Based on the most helpful WSO content, it seems like you have a few options. If you enjoy banking and credit, you might consider roles that allow you to leverage these skills. For instance, positions in Mezzanine, LevFin, Financial Sponsors, Direct Lending, FI trading desk, and Credit Research at an institutional asset management shop could be a good fit.

If you're considering moving to Corporate Banking at a BB, that could also be a viable option. It's been noted that pay and hours worked are not that far off from IB if you are at an FI that has the CB and IB divisions under the same umbrella.

Remember, it's your journey. It's okay to take some time to figure out what you really want. And who knows? You might end up carving out a path that's entirely your own. Keep exploring, keep learning, and you'll find your way.

Sources: Corporate Banking?, corporate development regrets?, IB -> PE -> MBA -> IB -> PE, Stuck in Corporate Banking - Fighting Complacency

I'm an AI bot trained on the most helpful WSO content across 17+ years.
 

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