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Investment Banker
Accounting and finance

How to become an Investment Banker

What does an Investment Banker do?

Thinking about becoming an Investment Banker? Capital idea…

Investment Bankers provide financial advice to businesses and governments, and help them raise the capital required for investments.

They differ from regular investors (such as angels) or Merchant Bankers in that they work solely with companies and commercial clients, rather than individual investors, but their primary function remains the same – to help ensure people make intelligent investments.

Typical duties for an Investment Banker include:

  • Buying and selling securities
  • Bond and equity financing
  • Profit forecasting and risk analysis
  • Underwriting deals
  • Assisting with mergers and corporate acquisitions
  • Ensuring that government regulations have been followed when raising capital

Is a career as an Investment Banker right for me?

Contrary to popular belief, you don’t have to aspire to be the next Wolf of Wall Street in order to become an Investment Banker.

In fact, it’s within everyone’s interest that your recommendations help organisations progress, and the ability to build good relationships with your clients will be key to success in this position. 

Maintaining a professional appearance is similarly vital when attracting potential investors.Other key skills for an Investment Banker include:

  • A strong background in mathematics
  • Commercial awareness
  • Logical thinking and problem solving
  • Excellent negotiation skills
  • Self-confidence
  • Drive and determination
  • The ability to work well under pressure

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Career progression and salary expectations for an Investment Banker

1

Investment Analyst

| Up to £40,000
2

Investment Banker

| Up to £60,000
3

Senior Investment Banker

| Up to £120,000

Get qualified as an Investment Banker

To become an Investment Banker, a strong educational background is typically essential. Most Investment Bankers hold at least a bachelor's degree in finance, economics, accounting, or a related field from a reputable university. Many professionals in this field also pursue advanced degrees such as a Master of Business Administration (MBA) or a Master's degree in Finance to further enhance their knowledge and skills. Gaining relevant work experience through internships or entry-level positions in financial institutions is equally crucial for breaking into the industry.

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What's it like to be an Investment Banker?

"I got into investment banking pretty much straight after university, doing various paid internship positions until I’d built up a decent network of contacts – which helped get me my first full-time position. I won’t lie that initially, I was drawn to the industry because of the potential pay packet, but I soon became passionate about helping my clients’ profits grow – almost more than they were. The hours can be long and it can be stressful, but the buzz you get when your recommendations reap financial rewards make the hard work well worth it. To be honest, I can’t imagine doing anything else."

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