Options Group, a leader in financial services recruiting, says there is still plenty of room for innovation and growth across the investment sector. While some headwinds persist, the firm is leaning towards market optimism. Leo Cummings, an Associate at Hunt Scanlon Ventures, takes a closer look.
As 2025 gets underway, the investment banking sector continues to surface hiring opportunities, despite a challenging past 15 months.
According to Options Group – a leading global executive search and strategic consulting firm specializing in financial services including capital markets, global markets, alternative investments, hedge funds, private banking/wealth management, and technology – firms that act strategically in this environment will benefit as they catch the tailwinds of what is expected to be a growth year in the markets.
“Potential hires instinctively look at disruptive periods like the one we are currently in as opportunities,” said Options Group.
“Potential hires instinctively look at disruptive periods like the one we are currently in as opportunities”
Views by Seniority
Top-tier banking talent, especially senior level dealmakers, are often tied in place by performance bonuses and year-end compensation payouts. As this year unfolds, senior bankers are carefully evaluating risk before making moves, said the firm.
At the VP and Associate levels, expectations for an active Q1 hiring spree have given way to a more measured pace at the moment. However, many junior bankers have been willing to engage in hiring conversations.
Talent Mobility
Compensation remains a key driver in talent mobility, according to Options Group. With a limited deal pipeline reducing risk appetite, some bankers have been cautious about jumping to new firms. However, post-compensation trends suggest that advisory platforms and middle-market firms are aggressively competing for talent.
“This trend was most pronounced last year given the increases in revenue across IB,” says Options Group. “In a strong market, particularly in M&A, one needs to change platforms to get paid.”
“In a strong market, particularly in M&A, one needs to change platforms to get paid.”
Market Optimism
Despite some structural challenges, optimism remains high across the industry. Drew Seaman, Managing Director of Hunt Scanlon Ventures, sees a positive hiring landscape for the broader financial sector.
Related: Forces Shaping the 2025 Dealmaking Boom – ExitUp
“With deal pipelines improving and firms focusing on long-term growth, we expect hiring to pick up in key areas,” Mr. Seaman said. “Companies that take a strategic approach now will be well-positioned as the market strengthens.”
While firms remain cautious in the early months of the year, those with an eye on expansion are already positioning themselves to attract top talent. As market confidence builds and deal making accelerates, hiring activity is likely to follow suit.
Article By
Leo Cummings
Leo Cummings is Editor-in-Chief of ExitUp, the investment blog from Hunt Scanlon Ventures designed for professionals across the human capital M&A sector. Leo serves as an Associate for Hunt Scanlon Ventures, providing robust industry research to support the firm’s investment group.
