Investment Banker

What is an investment banker?

An investment banker is a person who helps companies, governments and other groups plan and manage financial aspects of large projects.

What does an investment banker do?

Usually, an investment banker does the following:

• Raises capital (money) for their client by issuing securities.
• Provides advice to clients on strategic financial and investment planning.
• Analyses market trends and financial data to advise clients on investment strategies.
• Acts as an intermediary in negotiations between two companies in mergers and acquisitions.

What does the day-to-day life of an investment banker look like?

Usually, an investment banker works long hours, starting the day early and finishing late into the evening. The workload tends to be quite high and can involve a lot of travelling. In the day, you might be meeting clients, attending conference calls, and preparing presentations.

Where does an investment banker work?

Investment bankers typically work in offices, often in the financial districts of major cities. The biggest employers are investment banks, both large multinational firms and smaller, regional boutiques. Consulting firms, asset management companies and financial advisory firms may also employ investment bankers.

What tools/software/hardware does an investment banker use?

An investment banker uses tools such as:

• Microsoft Excel: For financial modelling, data analysis and creating financial reports.
• Bloomberg Terminal: A computer software system that provides real-time access to the Bloomberg Professional service, where users can monitor and analyse real-time financial market data.
• Investment Banking CRM Software: For managing and improving client relations.
• Financial Calculators: For performing complex financial calculations quickly and accurately.

What do I need to become an investment banker?

There are several pathways to becoming an investment banker, including:

• Bachelor's degree: This is usually the minimum requirement, with employers typically favouring graduates with degrees in finance, economics, business or mathematics.
• Masters in Finance or MBA: Many investment bankers continue their studies by completing a Masters degree or an MBA.
• Internships: Many investment banks offer internships, which can provide valuable experience and potentially lead to full-time employment.

What career paths are available?

There are several ongoing career paths in investment banking, including:

• Senior Investment Banker: With increased experience and success, you could become a director or managing director of your bank.
• Venture Capitalist: Some investment bankers move into venture capital, where they help startups and smaller companies grow by investing in them.
• Financial Advisor: You could also become a financial advisor, providing advice to individuals and companies about how to manage their money.

What jobs are similar to an investment banker?

• Equity Analyst: Researching and analysing financial data to help the company make well informed decisions about potential investments.
• Portfolio Manager: Managing investment portfolios and making decisions about investment mix and policy.
• Mergers and Acquisitions Consultant: Consulting on the buying, selling and combining of different companies.

What made you want to become an investment banker?

How did you get your first investment banker job?

What was the one thing that surprised you the most about being an investment banker?

Are you an investment banker? We want you to share your experiences with those looking to start or change their careers to investment banker. If you're interested contact us at mail@calumchilds.com.