Associate - Investment Banking Salary

An investment banking associate performs several different roles relating to investment banking decisions. Evaluating profitability and conducting financial transactions are two of the main key duties for this position. In addition, investment banking associates analyze investment strategies, identify potential investments, and conduct risk assessments. They also attend meetings with clients and prepare presentations providing an overview of clients investment portfolios. Investment banking associates work in highly competitive offices of investment banks in extremely competitive work environments. A few of the top firms in the industry include Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley, Citigroup, Credit Suisse, and JPMorgan Chase. A mixture of skills are needed for this position. Quantitative and analytical skills are key requirements for investment banking associates in addition to sales and marketing skills. One must be able to communicate effectively- both written and orally, as well. Co-workers include senior investment bankers and other analysts who are assigned to specific projects and work in teams. Investment banking associates work alongside more seasoned bankers and experts from all different industries. A few industries include corporate finance, healthcare, real estate, retail, and telecommunications, and mergers and acquisitions- but the scope is much wider than that. A typical day in the life of an associate investment banker includes conducting sophisticated financial analysis and industry research, development of new business ideas, preparing client presentations, marketing new products, and pricing and distributing securities. Closing deals with clients is a key element of the job that will ultimately determine if one succeeds or fails in the field. Clients typically include companies which are looking to raise capital through the sale of company securities. An advanced degree, such as and MBA, JD, or PhD from a top school with top-notch academic performance is an absolute requirement for any candidate to such a position. In addition, internship experience within and investment banking environment is highly desirable, and is more almost considered to be an absolute requirement. In addition to the educational requirements, investment banking associates also require certification in order to perform many job related duties pertaining to securities. Typical certifications include the Series 7, 63, 65, 66, 79, and 84563X2 tests, which are typically completed during training. The Certified Financial Analyst (CFA) exam is another desirable certification to obtain. Typical work week schedules for investment banking associates are extremely taxing. Associates can expect to work anywhere between 80 and 100 hours per week, or even more. A typical week will include working from about 9 in the morning to 11 at night during the week, in addition to a full day on either Saturday or Sunday. The corporate work environment is extremely fast paced, stressful, and competitive.

Associate - Investment Banking Tasks