Career Guide
Career Roadmaps
Step-by-step paths from student to elite finance professional — with real salary data, required skills, and insider tips at every stage.
Investment Banking Path
From Student to Managing Director
The classic IB career progression — one of the most structured and well-defined paths in all of finance.
Undergraduate
Years 1–4$0 (student)
Analyst
Years 1–3$110K–$125K base + $55K–$125K bonus (50–100% of base)
Associate
Years 3–6$175K–$250K base + $100K–$200K bonus
Vice President
Years 6–10$250K–$400K base + $200K–$500K bonus
Managing Director
10+ Years$500K–$2M+ (highly variable)
Total Timeline: 10–15 Years to MD
The IB path is one of the most linear in finance — each promotion has clear criteria and typical timelines. Those who survive make exceptional money.
Further Reading
Authoritative resources on investment banking careers.