With the London M&A market remaining active, a number of mid-market investment banks and boutiques are actively looking to recruit experienced, execution ready hires at Associate level and above, which is proving to be very challenging. With a focus on specific sectors and language requirements, the shortage of candidates at this level is very apparent and bucks the trend of the overall UK wide job market. In general, across the UK the job market is a slow and challenging environment for job seekers. However, the demand for experienced corporate financiers at Associate level and above is strong and opportunities are available. 

There has always been a strong pull for these experienced M&A associates to move into private equity, venture capital and corporate development roles, often tempted by the offer of lifestyle and compensation advantages. On top of this challenge for recruitment, post-Brexit visa requirements have narrowed the pool of international candidates. 

Compounding the shortage of available talent is the overall impression of the current job market. UK and investment banking sector wide, the job market is slow, and the general view is that there is fierce competition for roles and a lack of job opportunities. This is impacting on experienced corporate financiers as they are not actively looking for a career move – deciding to stay where they are and build their experience there until the market improves. However, opportunities are out there to accelerate career growth. 

The team at Alan Mitchell are working hard to ensure we attract experienced M&A Associates, VP’s and AD’s by actively approaching individuals at this level to let them know there are opportunities if they are keen to explore them. We are also networking to build awareness of the market dynamics and strong demand for experienced corporate financiers. 

If you are at this level and would like to have a confidential conversation to find out more about the opportunities available, please get in touch with Sarah Seager to arrange a confidential conversation. 

If you are currently looking to recruit into your team, we are proud to be working with high calibre experienced candidates and would be very keen to find out if they fit your requirements. Please do get in touch with Sarah to find out more. 

Sarah Seager 

Email: sarah@alan-mitchell.co.uk  

Tel: 020 3146 6264