Am I cooked for high finance?

Am I Suited for a Career in High finance? Seeking Guidance on Next Steps (UK)

Hello everyone,

I’m currently working in a graduate role at a management consulting firm just below the Big 4 — firms like Accenture, PA Consulting, Capgemini Invent, Vendigital, and Atkins. While I appreciate the work I do, I’ve noticed that the salary and career progression aren’t as robust as I had anticipated, even compared to the public sector up to the managerial level. My initial aim was to join MBB or another top-tier strategy firm, but I wasn’t successful in landing a position there.

Now, I’m exploring opportunities in finance in London, especially in equity research, asset or wealth management, and possibly as a founder’s associate at startups. I would love to connect with anyone who has made a similar transition or can provide insights into these fields.

Here’s a bit about my background:

Education: I hold a 2.1 in Law from a reputable UK university (think Bristol, Nottingham, Bath, Exeter), graduating in 2022, along with AAA at A-level. I believe my university is regarded as a semi-target.
Experience: Before consulting, I spent a year working in policy in Whitehall and nearly a year in private equity recruitment straight out of university.

I have a few key questions:

What is the best strategy for transitioning into finance from a consulting background?
Which roles in finance are known for offering competitive pay and career advancement?
Considering my experience and education, which specific roles would be realistic for me to target?

I would greatly appreciate any insights, advice, or personal anecdotes! Thank you in advance!

Response:

Hi there!

It sounds like you’re in an interesting position, and it’s great that you’re considering a transition into finance. Based on your background and experience, I think there are definitely opportunities out there for you. Here are my thoughts on your questions:

Breaking into finance from consulting:
Networking: Leverage your current network and reach out to alumni from your university who are in finance. Join industry meetups and events (both virtual and in-person) to connect with professionals in the roles you’re interested in.
Skill development: Consider taking finance-related courses or certifications (like CFA Level 1 or financial modeling courses) to bolster your resume and demonstrate your commitment to the transition.
Tailor your application: Highlight any relevant experience from your consulting role that aligns with finance, such as analytical skills, problem-solving abilities, or experience with data analysis.
Pay and progression opportunities:
Generally, roles in equity research and investment management tend to offer competitive pay, often above consulting levels, especially once you get into more senior positions. Asset management and wealth management also offer good remuneration and clear progression paths, but the pace can vary depending on the firm.
Founder’s associate roles can be hit or miss in terms of pay, but they can offer significant learning opportunities and potentially quicker progression if the startup does well.
Best fit for your background:
Your experience in policy and PE recruitment gives you a good foundation, especially for roles that require an understanding of market dynamics and client management. You might want to target equity research or asset management roles that value analytical skills coupled with a strategic mindset, both of which are honed in consulting.
Given your academic credentials and experience, aiming for mid-level analyst roles in finance is realistic, especially if you can demonstrate a strong interest in the sector.

In terms of roles to consider, equity research and investment analyst positions could be great fits for you. They generally value the analytical skills you’ve developed in consulting. Startups often look for individuals who can wear multiple hats, and your consulting background could be a strong selling point.

Ultimately, it sounds like you’re making a solid decision to pivot towards finance, and your diverse background will likely serve you well. Good luck with your transition! Feel free to reach out if you have more questions or if I can help further!

One response

APAdmin

26 March 2025 at 11:20 AM
Response:

Hi there!

It sounds like you’re in an interesting position, and it’s great that you’re considering a transition into finance. Based on your background and experience, I think there are definitely opportunities out there for you. Here are my thoughts on your questions:
1. Breaking into finance from consulting:
2. Networking: Leverage your current network and reach out to alumni from your university who are in finance. Join industry meetups and events (both virtual and in-person) to connect with professionals in the roles you’re interested in.
3. Skill development: Consider taking finance-related courses or certifications (like CFA Level 1 or financial modeling courses) to bolster your resume and demonstrate your commitment to the transition.
4. Tailor your application: Highlight any relevant experience from your consulting role that aligns with finance, such as analytical skills, problem-solving abilities, or experience with data analysis.
5. Pay and progression opportunities:
6. Generally, roles in equity research and investment management tend to offer competitive pay, often above consulting levels, especially once you get into more senior positions. Asset management and wealth management also offer good remuneration and clear progression paths, but the pace can vary depending on the firm.
7. Founder’s associate roles can be hit or miss in terms of pay, but they can offer significant learning opportunities and potentially quicker progression if the startup does well.
8. Best fit for your background:
9. Your experience in policy and PE recruitment gives you a good foundation, especially for roles that require an understanding of market dynamics and client management. You might want to target equity research or asset management roles that value analytical skills coupled with a strategic mindset, both of which are honed in consulting.
10. Given your academic credentials and experience, aiming for mid-level analyst roles in finance is realistic, especially if you can demonstrate a strong interest in the sector.
In terms of roles to consider, equity research and investment analyst positions could be great fits for you. They generally value the analytical skills you’ve developed in consulting. Startups often look for individuals who can wear multiple hats, and your consulting background could be a strong selling point.

Ultimately, it sounds like you’re making a solid decision to pivot towards finance, and your diverse background will likely serve you well. Good luck with your transition! Feel free to reach out if you have more questions or if I can help further!
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