The pathway
How you actually get there, here
How you become one varies far more by country than what one does. This is the UK route. Most people take one of these ways in; the right one depends on where you're starting from.
- 1
Investment Banking Analyst
2-3 years as an AnalystSkills to master
- Advanced Excel modelling, valuation methodologies (DCF, comps), presentation skills, deal process understanding, working under pressure.
You're ready to move on when
- You've independently built several complex financial models for M&A or financing deals.
- You're comfortable with tight deadlines and high-pressure environments.
- You can articulate the key drivers and risks of various business models.
- 2
Management Consultant (Associate/Consultant)
2-4 years as a ConsultantSkills to master
- Structured problem-solving, market research, strategic analysis, client communication, hypothesis-driven analysis.
You're ready to move on when
- You've led market entry strategies or competitive landscape analyses for clients.
- You can break down complex business problems into logical components.
- You're skilled at synthesising large amounts of information into clear recommendations.
- 3
Corporate Development Associate
2-4 years in a similar corporate roleSkills to master
- Internal stakeholder management, M&A process, strategic rationale development, integration planning (basic understanding).
You're ready to move on when
- You've supported multiple M&A or investment deals from an internal corporate perspective.
- You understand how corporate strategy influences investment decisions.
- You're adept at working with various internal departments (legal, finance, business units).