Lateraling to S&T from IB/Consulting
Currently a graduate in a top corporate role outside of S&T (think BB/EB IBD or MBB consulting). I’m enjoying my current role but have always had an interest in markets and am seriously considering trying to make the switch after 1-2 years in my current role. The problem is I have no markets-related experience outside of a spring week and would be recruiting for grad roles. Does anyone have any advice on how I can make the pivot and not just get screened out at the CV stage? For background, I have a First Class stem degree from a Uk target and would be recruiting for London.
Based on the most helpful WSO content, transitioning to S&T from IB or consulting is definitely possible, but it requires a strategic approach. Here’s how you can position yourself effectively:
Leverage Your Current Role: Highlight transferable skills from your current position. For example:
Build Market Knowledge: Since you lack direct markets experience, you need to demonstrate a genuine interest and understanding of the markets. Actions to take:
Networking: This is critical for breaking into S&T:
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects your interest in S&T:
Prepare for Interviews: S&T interviews often test both technical and behavioral skills:
Consider Grad Roles or Lateral Moves: Since you’re open to grad roles, apply to S&T graduate programs. However, also explore lateral moves within your current firm if they have an S&T division. Internal transitions can sometimes be easier than external ones.
Business School as a Backup: If the direct transition proves challenging, pursuing an MBA at a top school can provide a reset and open doors to S&T roles.
By combining these steps with persistence and a clear narrative about your passion for markets, you can significantly improve your chances of making the switch to S&T.
Sources: Transitioning from tech to a serious finance job (yes, you read that right), Navigating The Floor: A S&T Analyst's Guide, Is S&T still a good career path?, Advice for a 21-year-old entering BB S&T?
Probably not what you want to hear but have been in same boat (advisory) to S&T. Obviously exceptions but likelihood is, if you haven't done an S&T/markets internship, you'll struggle to lateral FT or get a grad offer. Most likely will need to do a Master's or somehow a way of landing an S&T internship (and then converting)
Thanks for the reply- this is what I feared and was hoping there was some way around this without the internship. I’m a bit confused about your personal position though as your recent posts suggest you just finished an S&T SA which doesn’t line up with what you just said. Am I missing something?
no harm in trying re graduate/lateral but think a) unlikely and b) crazy competitive already means it's gonna be an uphill battle. re my path, feel free to pm and happy to discuss
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