What is my best path forward for TAS to IB?
Hello, I have a goal of lateraling into investment banking as soon as possible. I'm starting in Big 4 TAS this summer at a huge city in the US. My goal for now is to lateral into IB. I was born and raised most of my life in the middle east, and don't think I see myself staying in the US for the long-term. I see myself somewhere in Europe / Middle East. What would my options be at this point?
Transition from Big 4 TAS US to IB Dubai (Would BB / EB be in the picture?) I speak French, English, and Arabic.
One year of work experience and seek acceptance in top-rated Masters program in the EU, and go through OCR
Lateral from Big 4 TAS to MM / Boutique here in the US.
My goal is to make this transition as fast as possible, ideally <1 year of my start date in TAS. What would you guys suggest?
Based on the insights from Wall Street Oasis, here's a strategic approach to transitioning from Big 4 TAS to investment banking, considering your background and goals:
Leverage Language Skills and Regional Experience: Given your fluency in French, English, and Arabic, and your upbringing in the Middle East, you are uniquely positioned to appeal to firms operating in Europe and the Middle East. This multilingual capability and regional understanding can be a significant advantage in markets like Dubai, where such skills are highly valued.
Immediate Lateral Move to IB in the US: Since your goal is to make the transition as quickly as possible, initially targeting MM or boutique investment banks in the US could be a practical step. These firms often have more flexible hiring and transition policies compared to BBs or EBs. Utilize your Big 4 TAS experience to highlight your financial modeling, due diligence, and transaction management skills, which are directly applicable to IB roles.
Plan for a Master's Program in the EU: Applying for a top-rated Master's program in the EU after gaining a year of work experience can be a strategic move. This will not only enhance your academic credentials but also provide access to on-campus recruiting (OCR) opportunities, which are a critical pathway to breaking into investment banking in Europe.
Networking and Professional Development: Continuously expand your professional network by connecting with alumni, colleagues, and professionals in the IB industry both in the US and abroad. Attend industry conferences, seminars, and networking events to meet potential mentors and recruiters. Additionally, consider obtaining certifications like the CFA, which could bolster your profile for IB roles.
Evaluate Long-Term Goals and Geographic Preferences: Since you envision a future in Europe or the Middle East, consider how each move aligns with your long-term career aspirations. Transitioning to a role in IB in Dubai could serve as a stepping stone to roles in Europe, leveraging Dubai’s position as a financial hub with strong connections to European markets.
By following these steps, you can strategically position yourself for a successful transition from Big 4 TAS to investment banking, aligning your career trajectory with your geographic and professional preferences.
Sources: Q&A: Big 4 Audit to MM IB, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/job-search/ibd-sa-after-graduation?customgpt=1, Accounting major, can't seem to break into IB, Q&A: MBB, BB S&T+IB, Top MBA, US/Global, Last chance for Investment Banking?
bump
Cupiditate natus quo et excepturi molestiae aspernatur voluptatem. Et vero voluptate eos voluptatem nam.
Ipsum ex sit debitis ipsum expedita. Dolor est tenetur voluptas voluptas velit. Molestiae quidem dolores est et nam aliquam.
See All Comments - 100% Free
WSO depends on everyone being able to pitch in when they know something. Unlock with your email and get bonus: 6 financial modeling lessons free ($199 value)
or Unlock with your social account...