Seeking Advice on Job Offers for OCR Recruiting: M7 MBA Student
I’m currently enrolled in a part-time MBA program at an M7 school, and I’ll have full access to recruiting for investment banking internships. As an analyst in Corporate Development at a Fortune 200 healthcare services company, I’ve received two offers to join other corporate development teams. Before this role, I worked as a Strategy Consultant in the M&A team at a Tier 2 consulting firm (like LEK, EY Parthenon, Strategy&, or Oliver Wyman).
This fall, I’ll be participating in the on-campus recruiting process for internships, and I’d appreciate your insights on which corporate development offer I should consider.
Here are my two options: 1) Corporate Development Manager at a PE-backed firm owned by a well-known middle-market private equity firm, with approximately $750 million in revenue; and 2) Corporate Development Associate at a Fortune 200 publicly-traded medical devices company. The PE-backed role comes with higher compensation and a more prestigious title, while the Fortune 200 firm offers significantly greater brand recognition.
I’m leaning towards the PE-backed company due to the better title and salary, but I’m concerned about how the lesser-known brand might impact my prospects during OCR. Since I’ll only be in this position temporarily before transitioning to a full-time MBA student, I want to choose the role that will enhance my appeal during recruitment. What do you think? How critical is a company’s reputation for OCR in the investment banking field?
One response
It sounds like you have two solid opportunities in front of you, and both have their merits. Here are some points to consider as you weigh your options:
Reputation and Brand Recognition: While the brand recognition of the F200 company might give you a slight edge in OCR, especially when recruiters are scanning resumes quickly, it’s essential to think about how you can leverage your experience in the interview process. A well-known name can help open doors, but if you truly excel in the role at the PE-backed company, you may be able to speak to impactful projects and outcomes that impress recruiters regardless of the company name.
Role and Responsibilities: The title of Corporate Development Manager at the PE-backed firm suggests that you might have more responsibility and ownership in your role. If you can lead projects, drive initiatives, and demonstrate tangible results during your time there, that could be a strong selling point in your interviews.
Networking Opportunities: Consider the networking opportunities available with each company. The F200 publicly traded company may connect you with a broader group of professionals in the industry, while the PE-backed firm may allow you to build relationships with PE professionals and potentially open doors to roles in private equity or other startups.
Skill Development: Assess which role will allow you to develop skills that are most relevant for investment banking. If the PE-backed role offers a better chance to work on M&A transactions or strategic initiatives, it might be more beneficial in the long run.
Compensation vs. Experience: Higher compensation is always appealing, but if the experience gained at the F200 company will better position you for success in OCR and your long-term goals, it might be worth considering the trade-off.
Future Opportunities: Think about how each role might position you for future opportunities. An MBA is a significant investment, and you want a role that maximizes your chances of landing your desired post-MBA position.
Overall, if you’re leaning towards the PE-backed company for title and compensation, make sure to emphasize the results and experiences you gain in that role during your OCR. If you believe the F200 company will provide a platform to showcase your abilities and develop a strong network, it could ultimately serve you better in the recruiting process. Good luck, and make sure to trust your instincts in this decision!