IB (LMM) or Corp Dev Lead at PE backed PortCo

Looking for input on transitioning from IB (LMM) to a Corp Dev Lead at PE backed firm.

Associate at IB: $105k + 10% revenue share + 40% revenue share (fully sourced)

Corp Dev Lead: $110k + $2k per LOI + $5k per close

Would it be better to work at a LMM IB in which earning potential is extremely high, but risky. Or go with a Corp Dev role that has a clearer career path.

Appreciate the feedback.

3 Comments
 

StrategyJunkie

If you want to be in the deal world, few places are better to start than IB, assuming it's a real bank that does deals and not a low-volume broker. IB should give you more deal reps and more optionality if you choose to leave after 2 years. 

It is much easier to go IB -> Corp Dev than vice versa. 

Currently in the IB role. And yes, its quite small. Think $30M to $70M closed per year. Last year was much higher but just to be conservative. That said, at ~4% fee on $50M closed ($2M revenue), its a $200k bonus that scales up from there.

My issue would be giving up the potential to grow that earning potential vs. a Corp Dev Lead role with PE firm (400M most recent fund and over $1B AUM) that I believe would have more resume weight going forward. But correct me if I'm wrong.

 

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