Sr As / VP Market

Based on the most helpful WSO content, the "brutal lateral market" often refers to both pre-MBAs and MBAs, but the challenges can differ depending on the candidate's background and timing. Here's a breakdown:

1. Pre-MBAs Looking to Lateral:

   • Lateral opportunities for pre-MBAs are generally more limited and ad-hoc.
   • Firms may view pre-MBAs lateraling out of their first associate stint as a red flag, especially if they were passed up for promotion or are perceived as not having strong upward mobility.
   • Timing also plays a role, as lateral recruiting tends to be more active in Q1/Q2, with fewer opportunities in the latter half of the year.

2. MBAs (Traditional 2+2+2 Path):

   • MBAs who follow the traditional 2+2+2 path (2 years IBD analyst, 2 years PE associate, 2 years MBA) typically aim for VP roles post-MBA.
   • However, not all MBAs secure VP titles immediately. Some firms may require them to start as senior associates, especially if they lack specific experience or need to adapt to the firm's culture and processes.
   • In some cases, firms may offer an "accelerated track" where the candidate starts as a senior associate but transitions to VP after a short period (e.g., 6-12 months).

The lateral market for both groups is competitive, and success often depends on networking, timing, and the candidate's perceived value to the hiring firm.

Sources: Post MBA-Associate Roles: As bad as People Say?, "We don't hire VPs", Q&A: MBB, BB S&T+IB, Top MBA, US/Global, VP role for PE - is it worth pursuing an MBA outside of H/S/W?, Long Term Career in IB | What is the Strategy?