MBB exit opportunities

Question

hey everyone. I am facing a huge dilemma and would really appreciate your help.

I have two job offers, Equity research at a 2nd tier bank and MBB consulting, both located in Dubai. I have internship experience in Equity research and I like it, but the prestige & name recognition of MBB are unmatched. Also the compensation for the MBB position is considerably higher, and I feel like I would enjoy the travel and meeting with business leaders aspects of it. I'm reluctant to accept the MBB offer because I know the exit opportunities for equity research (specifically Banking and private equity), but I'm not sure about MBB.

the question is, based on your experiences, what are the exit opportunities available after MBB, in case I decide to leave?

thanks in advance.

Answer 1

Hi there,

At the risk of oversimplifying, the exit opportunities from MBB are fantastic (better at McKinsey). In general, you can make most transitions out of MBB.

If we're looking at # of options, MBB is much greater than Equity research. However, you of course need to decide what options you want.

If you're sure you're interested in banking/PE then stick to Equty Research. If you want broader options, go with MBB.

All that said, you may be able to "hedge your bets" if, for example, you're going to Bain (more PE-focused). OR, if you're going into Mck/BCG but plan to be put on a fair few DDs and other PE projects.

Answer 2

Hey there,

Please do what you really want to do that will make you joyful & happy. If you do this and make the right moves, success/money will happen. Too often people end up in jobs for wrong reasons- peer pressure, money, impatience etc.

In addition, choose that option which will be a better fit with your values, career aspirations & risk apetite. Dont bet on a future decision now- you can't predict this but only plan for it.

Reading your question, I sense a certain passion for Equity research. Listen to your 6th sense/gut feeling and stick with it. Thats the answer.

All the best!

Answer 3

Hi there,

Congats on your offers!

generally speaking, with the right preparation / mindset, after MBB you can choose between a larger set of options and can land a job pretty much in any area.

From your message I have a feeling that you're more interested in equity research because you have experience there, but you're also temped about the MBB (money&prestige&travel), is that so?

In any case, don't settle for dreams that are not yours, but also don't let fear determine what you're capable of.

Best,

GB

Answer 4

Hello!

Congrats! Lovely issue to have.

For me, and precisely for the reasons you mentioned, MBB is the clear choice here!

Regarding exit strategies, the answer is clear... almost anything! In terms of geographies and industries -same as clients you would serve-.

Hope it helps!

Cheers,

Clara

Answer 5

Hi,

MBB will give you a large number of options in terms of exit opportunities but maybe not as much for the specific field you mentioned.

If you specifically wanted to go to banking (IB?) or private equity and decide to go to MBB, I would suggest try to get as much as possible a PE related project (e.g. due dilligence, carve out, M&A, Post Merger Integration)

Best,

Iman