IBD (also known as Corporate Finance) professionals are the consultants of investment banking. They are primarily responsible for the management of client relationships for Corporates and Financial Institutions, and as a result are well versed in the various aspects of their client’s operations and businesses. Specific activities range from strategic advisory, working with clients to assess their financial health and needs to providing tailor-made solutions in the form of financial or strategic acquisitions, capital raisings (debt, equity, equity-linked or other structured products), tax advice, advice on foreign exchange strategies and corporate restructurings.
An IBD analyst’s typical day involves producing what is commonly known as “pitch” books (marketing materials), researching various industries, performing comparable company analysis and transaction data and building financial models. Through these experiences analysts gain exposure to complex accounting and financial analysis, which demands superior attention to detail, anticipation of potential issues and solid problem solving skills. The IBD analyst role is an excellent opportunity to gain exposure to finance and business early in one's career and to create a skill set that can ultimately serve as a springboard to strategic management.
IBD analysts can pursue careers in a Product, Industry or Country group. Product groups include Mergers & Acquisitions, Debt Capital Markets, Equity Capital Markets, Leveraged Finance, Securitisation and Structured Products, Project Finance, Private Placements and Restructuring. Industry sectors include Communications & Media, Consumer Retail, Financial Institutions, Healthcare, Industrial, Natural Resources, Power, Real Estate and Technology.
Programme requirements
- On track for a 2.1 or above
- Minimum 'BBB' at A level (or equivalent in UCAS points)
- No specific degree subject is required
- Broad knowledge of the finance industry is required
- Excellent quantitative and analytical skills
- Resourcefulness - the ability to think creatively to solve problems
- Self motivation - the focus and drive to be able to rise to challenges
- Assertiveness - the confidence to share opinions and insights and stick by them
- Diligence - the ability to maintain exceptionally high standards of work at all times
- Attention to detail – accuracy and precision are key to this industry
