Investment Banking:
* Analyst: Entry-level roles focused on financial modeling, valuation, due diligence, and pitch book preparation for mergers and acquisitions, leveraged buyouts, and debt financing. This is a highly demanding but prestigious path.
* Associate: After a few years as an analyst, associates take on more responsibility, managing deals, interacting with clients, and leading junior analysts.
* Vice President/Senior Vice President/Managing Director: These senior roles involve leading teams, managing large deals, and originating business. Requires significant experience and proven success.
Corporate Finance:
* Financial Analyst: Working within a company, analyzing financial data, creating financial models, preparing budgets and forecasts, and advising on investment decisions.
* Financial Planning & Analysis (FP&A) Manager/Director: More senior roles focused on strategic planning, performance analysis, and driving financial improvements within the organization. Often involves working closely with senior management.
* Controller: Overseeing a company's accounting and financial reporting.
* Treasurer: Managing a company's cash flow, investments, and financing activities.
Asset Management:
* Portfolio Manager: Managing investment portfolios for clients, selecting investments based on market analysis and risk tolerance.
* Analyst: Supporting portfolio managers in research, analysis, and investment recommendations.
* Equity Research Analyst: Analyzing publicly traded companies and providing recommendations to investors.
* Fixed Income Analyst: Similar to equity research, but focusing on bonds and other fixed income securities.
Private Equity & Venture Capital:
* Associate/Analyst: Analyzing potential investments, conducting due diligence, and managing portfolio companies. Highly competitive and demanding.
* Principal/Partner: Senior roles involving sourcing deals, leading investments, and managing portfolio companies.
Real Estate:
* Real Estate Analyst: Analyzing real estate investment opportunities, conducting market research, and preparing financial models.
* Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT) Analyst: Analyzing REITs and providing investment recommendations.
* Real Estate Development: Working on the development and construction of real estate projects.
Other Opportunities:
* Financial Consultant: Providing financial advice to businesses and individuals.
* Hedge Fund Manager: Managing a hedge fund and making investment decisions.
* Risk Management: Assessing and mitigating financial risks for companies and institutions.
* Commercial Banking: Working at a commercial bank in roles like relationship manager, credit analyst, or loan officer.
* Government/Non-profit Finance: Working in public sector finance roles or for non-profit organizations.
* Entrepreneurship: Starting their own financial services business.
The specific titles and responsibilities can vary significantly depending on the industry, company size, and location. An MBA in finance provides a solid foundation for a successful career in many of these areas, but internships and networking are crucial for landing competitive positions.