Well, time to go for it - Big 4 (non-Valuation) to IB Associate
Inspired by what I've been reading, I'm going to go for it. I'd prefer a BB, but MM or boutique will do. I'm going to use this thread to update my progress (mainly for myself, but maybe it will help others too.) I will keep the updates short and infrequent (only when I have real info to report).
Background:
- Liberal arts BS from a big state school
- Both an MBA and an MS in Accounting from a top-50 non-target b-school
- 2 years Big4 work experience (mix of audit and internal audit), including significant time with a PE client (currently still in my Big4 role)
Next steps:
- Develop list of BB/MM/boutiques in my targeted geographical area (in progress)
- Retool resume to be IB-focused and project-centric (DONE) (based on M&I format)
- Develop IB cover letter (DONE) (based on M&I format)
- Submit resumes online to the BBs (in progress)
- Use LinkedIn, alum databases, friends and family to find Associates/MDs at my target banks (in progress)
- Pray
Anything I'm missing? Thoughts, questions, flames?
Good luck man.
Good Luck man, its now or never
While now is better, there is still later. There will be positions again when you get higher up the ladder (think the equivalent of a senior VP or MD at an investment bank).
Good luck.
Investment Banking Analyst - Technology HARRIS WILLIAMS & CO. Apply Close Posted: Jul 29, 2011 Salary Level Not Specified Desired Class Level(s) Alumnus/a HARRIS WILLIAMS & CO. Employer Profile Description
Harris Williams & Co.’s Technology, Telecom & Digital Media (TTDM) group is dedicated to providing superior merger & acquisition and capital markets advisory services to market leading companies. Our professionals in Boston, San Francisco and London have global relationships with public companies such as eBay and American Tower, and private equity and venture capital firms such as Insight Partners, Francisco Partners, Polaris Venture Partners and Apax Partners. Our industry knowledge and transaction leadership experience spans the software and SaaS, digital media, IT services, and communications sectors.
Career path, work environment, responsibilities for an Analyst at Harris Williams & Co.
Harris Williams & Co. is seeking a Financial Analyst to join the Technology, Telecom & Digital Media (TTDM) group in our Boston office. Analysts at HW&Co. are an integral part of the firm’s activities and are encouraged to handle a high level of responsibility on transaction teams. Analysts are expected to be active contributors during each phase of the deal process and in key non-transactional committee work. Analysts are primarily responsible for developing valuation models and analyses, for compiling research for multiple industries, and researching both private and public companies. Additionally, Analysts assist in writing and preparing presentation materials and are expected to actively participate in client meetings.
Experience and Character Traits
Harris Williams & Co. dedicates a great deal of effort to hire individuals who have demonstrated outstanding achievement both inside and outside of the classroom. Eligible candidates should posses a Bachelor’s degree from a four-year institution with a cumulative GPA of 3.2 or higher. No specific academic major is required; however, basic knowledge of finance and accounting is desired. At least one year of experience in investment banking is preferred; technology experience is ideal but not required.
An Analyst candidate should be extremely proficient in conversational and written English, be exceptionally detail oriented, have the ability to work well with others under pressure, and possess a willingness to work long hours. Applicants should also demonstrate a genuine desire to join a collegial, growing, entrepreneurial company.
Contact Jessica Thorne Jones Location Location City Boston State/Province Massachusetts Country United States Position Type Full Time (Regular) Job Function Finance - Investment Banking Work Authorization US Citizen, Permanent Resident Requirements In order to be considered for this position, please submit your resume via our website, www.welcometothemiddle.com Contact Information Employer: HARRIS WILLIAMS & CO. Name: Ms. Jessica Thorne Jones E-mail: [email protected] Website: http://www.welcometothemiddle.com Address: 1001 Haxall Point, 9th Floor Richmond, Virginia 23219
Associate Analyst- Equity Research Ameriprise Financial Apply Close Posted: Jul 06, 2011 Contact Pushpa Hora Job Function Research/Analysis Salary Level Not Specified Requisition # 82420 Work Authorization US Citizen Ameriprise Financial Employer Profile Description
Responsibilities This position works with the fundamental equity analyst group performing foundational research activities in support of portfolio management teams and senior analysts. The role supports senior analysts can include conducting research studies of industry groups or specific securities and developing quantitative decision-making models. The person in this role may conduct independent research, attend company meetings, trade shows and conferences as needed. The incumbent will work under the direction and management of senior analysts within the group. Over time, the person in this role may be asked to cover specific sectors and make investment recommendations under the supervision of senior analysts.
This is an entry position into the investment research field with the expectation of a career track in equity research for successful candidates.
Location Location City Boston State/Province Massachusetts Country United States Position Type Full Time (Regular) Desired Class Level(s) Graduate Student, Alumnus/a Requirements Qualifications - 2+ years of equity analysis/research experience required. - Proven ability to perform foundational research tasks on specific securities, companies and/or industries - Ability to communicate results effectively. - Ability and desire to work within a team environment. - College degree required preferably majoring in Finance, Economics, Business or other investment related discipline.
Ameriprise Financial is an equal opportunity employer.
If you are interested please apply via http://bit.ly/mehfpL Contact Information Employer: Ameriprise Financial Name: Ms Pushpa Hora Title: HR E-mail: [email protected] Website: http://www.ameriprsie.com Fax: 612.671.8699 Address: 112 Ameriprise Financial Center Minneapolis, MN 55474 United States
GOOD LUCK!
Good luck man.
Just a quick question, how do you approach the alumni system?
Thanks for the good luck wishes, all.
Update:
I've retooled my resume and CL, and sent out introductory messages through email and LinkedIn to several Associates at various firms. I got in touch with one, who indicated that I shouldn't even look at BBs with my background - disappointing, but certainly not unexpected.
I'm now going to start firing off messages to HR departments at boutiques in my area, hoping to get a hit. I've done no prep regarding technical/case study interviews (for modeling, etc), so I'm now trying to figure out how to prepare for those, should I get lucky and land an interview.
tdot-
I used my school's online database to look up people in my geographical area who worked for investment banks. The site's software allows me to email them directly.
What gives him the right to say you shouldn't even look at BBs with your background? He sounds like a fucking tool. Doesn't he know you can only say that shit anonymously, while hiding behind the screen like I do?
Anyway, sounds like a good start. Keep us posted.
Good luck, will follow with interest as in a somewhat similar position.
Would advise:
Dont say boutique/MM "will do"...say if you got that you'd be down on your knees praying....target BB too to play the numbers game but its highly unlikely.
Try to get into TAS with your firm (or TS/Corporate finance). Easier said than done but from what Im hearing looked on far better than audit.
I really think if you want it bad enough and you commit you'll get there eventually...Sounds cheesey but its not like you want to play for the Lakers or fly to the moon....its just a job. May take years but I do believe you can get there eventually....maybe Im naive though.
isn't it easier to move in TAS first? I'll probably be in your spot in a couple of years, but I'm also open to ER etc, so doing CFA now to make the future move possibly easier.
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