Honest opinions needed about lateraling

Based on the most helpful WSO content, your situation presents a classic trade-off between lifestyle, compensation, and career trajectory. Here are some key considerations to help you evaluate your options:

1. Lifestyle vs. Compensation

• Your current role offers a great work-life balance (50 hours/week, no weekends/holidays, liberal time off), which is rare in high finance. Moving back to IB, especially at an UMM+ bank, will likely mean significantly longer hours (70-100 hours/week) and more stress, even if the cash comp is higher.
• Consider whether the additional compensation in IB is worth sacrificing your current lifestyle, especially since you're already in a city you want to settle in long-term.

2. Upward Mobility

• While your current firm has limited structure and uncertain fundraises, the lack of competition for promotions could work in your favor if you stay and perform well. However, the unstructured nature of the firm could also mean less clarity on your career path.
• IB at an UMM+ bank might offer clearer promotion tracks, but the competition is fierce, and political dynamics can be even more intense than in PE.

3. Political Protection

• Feeling less politically protected in your current role is a valid concern. However, IB is not necessarily a solution to this, as politics are prevalent in banking as well. If this is a major factor, consider whether the issue lies with the firm culture or your position within it.

4. Long-Term Goals

• If your ultimate goal is to stay in PE, moving back to IB might not make sense. PE firms value continuity and deal experience, and jumping back to IB could disrupt your trajectory.
• On the other hand, if you're looking for a more structured environment with higher comp and are open to staying in IB long-term, the move could be justified.

5. Regret Minimization

• Ask yourself: Will you regret leaving a role with great lifestyle perks and a city you love for the grind of IB? Or will you regret not taking the chance to maximize your earnings and career potential in IB?

Final Thoughts:

If you're leaning toward IB, consider the following: - Timing: Lateral positions in IB tend to pop up around June/July after bonuses are paid out. Start networking and preparing your resume now. - Targeting: Focus on UMM+ banks with strong deal flow and a culture that aligns with your values. - Exit Strategy: Be clear about how this move fits into your long-term goals.

If you decide to stay in PE, focus on building your skill set, strengthening internal relationships, and positioning yourself for future fundraises or lateral moves to more structured PE firms.

Ultimately, the decision depends on your priorities—whether it's lifestyle, compensation, or career growth.

Sources: https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/private-equity/going-from-mm-investment-bank-to-mega-fund?customgpt=1, Lateraling Guide for Investment Banking, No country for old I-bankers (starting a mid-career thread for finance professionals), Lateraling Guide for Investment Banking