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
Executive Assistant (EA) in a Demanding Environment
5-7 yearsSkills to master
- Mastering complex diary management, multi-stakeholder coordination, international travel logistics, and maintaining absolute discretion and confidentiality.
You're ready to move on when
- You've regularly managed international travel for multiple senior executives simultaneously.
- You're known for your ability to pre-empt logistical problems and solve them before they escalate.
- You've been entrusted with highly sensitive information and maintained strict confidentiality.
- You're looking for a role with more direct ownership over a specific function (IR logistics) rather than general EA duties.
- 2
IR Roadshow Specialist (L2) at another firm
2-3 yearsSkills to master
- Independently managing end-to-end domestic roadshows, proactive problem-solving, and building relationships with corporate access teams.
You're ready to move on when
- You've successfully managed at least 10-15 domestic roadshows from start to finish.
- You're comfortable handling last-minute changes and travel disruptions with minimal supervision.
- You're ready to take on the added complexity of international trips and C-suite level support.
- You're looking for a step up in responsibility and the opportunity to mentor junior colleagues.
- 3
Corporate Access Coordinator at an Investment Bank
4-6 yearsSkills to master
- Deep understanding of the sell-side corporate access function, strong relationships with institutional investors, and experience coordinating complex investor meetings.
You're ready to move on when
- You've regularly facilitated non-deal roadshows and investor meetings for corporate clients.
- You understand the dynamics between buy-side, sell-side, and corporates.
- You're looking to move to the 'corporate side' and apply your expertise directly within an Investor Relations team.
- You're keen to take on more direct logistical ownership and executive support.