Considering finance Risk vs. Equity Research
To keep it brief, I’m in the process of interviewing for two roles: one in finance risk and another in equity research. Ideally, I’d prefer to return to credit risk, but that option isn’t currently available, and I’m questioning if it’s the right career path for me.
finance Risk (Capital Planning):
– Regional bank
– Involvement with regulators and exams, which I find intriguing
– Likely a more relaxed work environment
– Familiarity with capital planning processes
– Appears to offer a stable career trajectory, though I’m uncertain about my interest in treasury
Equity Research (Space & Defense):
– Regional bank (seems to lean toward the buy side)
– Covers an industry I’m passionate about
– Possible transition to a contractor in the Space & Defense sector
– Career advancement might not be as strong
– Work hours could be challenging
While I’ve had some experience in treasury, it hasn’t been my favorite; however, I enjoyed aspects of capital planning. Though equity research aligns well with my background in credit risk, I’m aware of the potential for demanding hours and uncertain career progression.
Is there anything else I should consider? Any advice would be greatly appreciated!
One response
It sounds like you have two intriguing opportunities ahead of you, each with its own set of advantages and challenges. Here are a few factors you might consider while making your decision:
Long-Term Career Goals: Think about where you want to be in 5-10 years. If you see yourself in a specific area related to credit risk or capital markets, that might steer you towards the finance risk role. If your passion lies in the aerospace and defense sector and you envision moving into that industry, equity research could be the better choice.
Work-Life Balance: You mentioned that the finance risk role might offer a more “chill environment,” which can be a significant factor in maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Consider how important this is to you, especially if you value time outside of work or have personal commitments.
Exposure and Learning Opportunities: The finance risk role provides exposure to regulators and a solid understanding of capital planning, which could be valuable in future roles within finance. On the other hand, equity research might give you deeper insights into the specific industry, which can be advantageous for networking and moving into a contractor role later.
Job Satisfaction: Reflect on your previous experiences. If you’ve enjoyed capital planning but not treasury, that’s an important indicator. The roles can sometimes overlap, but they also have distinct day-to-day responsibilities. Make sure to consider what tasks you’ll be doing most often and whether they’ll hold your interest.
Exit Opportunities: You mentioned the potential exit to a Space & Defense contractor in equity research, which could be appealing. If that is a critical area of interest for you, that could be a decisive factor. In contrast, finance risk might lead you to varied roles in banking or regulatory environments.
Network and Mentorship: Investigate the teams you would be working with. A solid mentorship or networking opportunities in one role versus the other could make a significant difference in your career growth.
Ultimately, weigh your priorities, interests, and long-term career goals. Both paths have pros and cons, so consider where you think you will thrive both professionally and personally. Good luck!