Hi, I know I should post this in the finance section but traction is a little slow. I am trying to pivot into IB without MBA in SEA region. I am from consulting and am looking for some advice and potential coaches. Any tips appreciated!
Cheers
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Hi! Just to add to Alessa’s great points: emphasize any strategy work linked to M&A, valuations, or due diligence, even if indirect—that’s still relevant for IB. Also, prepare clear “why IB” stories, as interviewers will challenge your motivation for switching from consulting.
Regarding the choice of your new firm, look out specifically for IBs that hire former consultants. If there are people from your current firm, try to network with them, since they’ve already done what you are trying to do.
Cheers,
Kevin
hi!
Totally doable! I’m actually coaching someone right now making the same pivot. Key is to highlight your deal exposure, financial modeling (even if self-taught), and transferable skills like client management, speed, and pressure handling. Tailor your CV toward transaction-oriented work and build some technical muscle (DCF, LBO, comps).
Target boutique or mid-market firms first—they’re more flexible on background. Also network hard, most IB switches happen through referrals, not cold apps.
Happy to help with prep!
Best,
Alessa
Your leveling / entry point, experience in diligence work, exposure / background in finance, and network are the key elements to make this pivot work. I worked through this myself (didn't end up making the pivot, joined a start-up instead) and have coached people on the process. Happy to set up a session.
Hi there,
Happy to help. Feel free to reach out.
If you want to get an overview of the recruitment process for consulting, you might find this handy:
Best,
Cristian
Depends on what you want to do, but most likely your only options are
1) into PE ops
2) start from the bottom if you do want to do PE work outside of an ops function
It's certainly possible.
Your profile should foreground any M&A-related work you have done, as well as telling a clear 'why IB' story.
Try to secure a referral if you can, as this will also increase the chances of you reaching the interview stage.
