VP Corporate Banking - MBA to pivot

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here's what you need to know:

Current Situation Analysis:

1. VP in Corporate Banking: Your concerns about limited career progression in Corporate Banking (CB) are valid. CB roles often plateau at VP level, with progression heavily tied to relationship management or niche internal roles (e.g., risk, credit, or transaction banking). The redundancy fears in London’s employer-favored market further highlight the need for a strategic pivot.
2. Compensation & Geography: Your current comp (£155-165K) is solid, but the opportunity to pivot to the US post-MBA offers potential for higher earnings, better WLB, and broader career opportunities, especially in tech/fintech.

MBA Considerations:

1. MIT Sloan vs. Booth:

   • MIT Sloan: With a $60K scholarship and its strong tech/fintech brand, Sloan is the clear winner for your goals. Its focus on innovation, entrepreneurship, and tech aligns perfectly with your desired pivot into BizOps, Chief of Staff, or Strategy & Ops roles.
   • Booth: While Booth is excellent for finance, the lack of scholarship and its less tech-focused reputation make it a less compelling choice for your specific pivot.

2. Post-MBA Goals:

   • BizOps/Strategy & Ops: These roles are a natural fit for your skill set, leveraging your analytical, credit, and transactional experience. Sloan’s network and brand in tech/fintech will open doors to firms like Amazon, Google, Stripe, or fintech startups.
   • Compensation: Post-MBA roles in BizOps/Strategy & Ops at top tech/fintech firms often start at $150-180K base + bonus + equity, which aligns with or exceeds your current comp, especially in the US.

3. US Visa:

   • Your British citizenship and Sloan’s strong brand will help with visa sponsorship. Many tech/fintech firms sponsor H1B visas, and your long-term goal of obtaining a green card is realistic with the right employer.

Key Advice for Your Pivot:

1. Leverage Sloan’s Ecosystem:

   • Tech/Fintech Focus: Take advantage of Sloan’s courses, clubs, and events focused on tech and fintech. Build relationships with professors, alumni, and recruiters in these industries.
   • Internships: Target internships in BizOps or Strategy & Ops at tech/fintech firms to gain relevant experience and demonstrate your ability to pivot.

2. Positioning Your Experience:

   • Highlight your VP-level experience in managing complex transactions, client relationships, and cross-functional teams. These skills are highly transferable to BizOps and Strategy & Ops roles.
   • Frame your CB experience as a foundation for strategic decision-making, operational efficiency, and financial acumen.

3. Networking:

   • Use Sloan’s alumni network to connect with professionals in your target roles and industries. Informational interviews can provide insights and help you position yourself effectively.
   • Attend tech/fintech conferences and events to expand your network and identify potential employers.

4. Geographic Flexibility:

   • Be open to starting in the US post-MBA to maximize opportunities and comp. Once you’ve established yourself in a senior role, you can consider relocating back to London in 5-6 years.

Final Thoughts:

Your plan to pursue an MBA at MIT Sloan is well-aligned with your goals. The scholarship, tech brand, and US opportunities make it a strong investment. Focus on leveraging Sloan’s resources, positioning your experience effectively, and building a robust network in tech/fintech. With a clear strategy, you can successfully pivot into BizOps or Strategy & Ops roles while maintaining seniority and achieving your long-term goals.

Sources: For Those Considering Banking - Some Broad Advice, Transitioning from tech to a serious finance job (yes, you read that right), Breakdown of Post-IB Exit Opportunities, Banking -> Startup PM on who SHOULD join IB