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 Planning Manager (L3)
2-4 years in this roleSkills to master
- End-to-end ownership of complex financial models, leading smaller projects independently, initial experience in mentoring junior analysts, and confidently presenting to business unit heads.
You're ready to move on when
- Consistently delivers robust, error-free financial models and valuation analyses.
- Demonstrates strong project management skills for financial workstreams.
- Receives positive feedback on presentations and ability to influence stakeholders.
- Has successfully mentored at least one junior analyst through a significant project.
- 2
Investment Banking Associate / VP
3-5 years post-MBA or 6-8 years direct from undergradSkills to master
- Deep expertise in M&A valuation, deal execution, client relationship management (internal equivalent), and working under intense pressure with tight deadlines.
You're ready to move on when
- Proven track record of leading valuation workstreams for M&A transactions.
- Strong command of financial due diligence processes.
- Ability to quickly grasp new industries and business models.
- Excellent presentation and client-facing communication skills.
- 3
Private Equity Associate / Senior Associate
3-5 years post-MBA or 6-8 years direct from undergradSkills to master
- Expertise in LBO modelling, investment thesis development, portfolio company monitoring, and a strong commercial mindset.
You're ready to move on when
- Demonstrated ability to build complex LBO models and assess investment opportunities.
- Experience in conducting commercial and financial due diligence.
- Strong understanding of value creation levers in portfolio companies.
- Ability to work independently on investment analyses.
- 4
Corporate Development Manager
2-4 years in this roleSkills to master
- Full M&A lifecycle management (sourcing, diligence, negotiation, integration planning), strategic analysis, and cross-functional project leadership.
You're ready to move on when
- Led multiple M&A transactions from a corporate perspective.
- Strong understanding of strategic rationale for acquisitions.
- Proven ability to manage internal and external M&A advisors.
- Experience in post-merger integration planning.