From Design to Investment Banking: A Journey of Growth and Networking at S P Jain Global.
Karthik M, MGB 2022
Pursuing a career in banking and finance requires more than a solid educational foundation—it demands perseverance, adaptability, and an entrepreneurial spirit. This is the story of one such journey, shaped at the intersection of design and finance and greatly influenced by the experiences at S P Jain School of Global Management.
The 18-month curriculum at SP Jain Global was a transformative experience. It was intense and pushed me to my limits, challenging my problem-solving skills and pushing me beyond my comfort zone. The program simulated a professional work environment, allowing me to learn new skills while refining the ones I already had.
Most significantly, the Twin City program played a pivotal role. It allowed me to immerse myself in Dubai and Singapore’s business and cultural environments. By the time I started my job, I was already familiar with the local business practices and customs, giving me an edge in my professional journey.
One of the most valuable aspects of my time at SP Jain Global was the diverse group of peers I had the privilege of learning alongside. With individuals from varied professional backgrounds—entrepreneurs, forensic doctors, engineers, and many others—my interactions with them enriched my understanding of finance & banking, and soft skills like teamwork, leadership, adaptability. The diversity of perspectives fostered an entrepreneurial spirit that I hope will guide me through future ventures.
Building a Path Toward Investment Banking
From the beginning of my professional journey, I had set my sights on investment banking. Today, I am working as an investment banker at a global investment bank covering the US markets—a role that brings me closer to my long-held dream. The rigorous academic training I received at SP Jain Global have been crucial in achieving this milestone.
My advice to anyone pursuing a similar career is simple: recognise your purpose early and take proactive steps to network with industry professionals. Understanding the specific skill sets needed for this niche career path is essential, as your competition will be other high performers who can set you apart.
Dubai and Singapore are incredibly student-friendly environments, with abundant networking opportunities through events and summits. If you’re proactive about your career goals, opportunities will find their way to you. When I first started the MGB program in Singapore, I had fewer than 100 connections on LinkedIn. By the time I left Singapore, I had grown my network to over 500, including many professionals from the investment banking sector. Networking is the key to unlocking doors, and I strongly encourage others to embrace this strategy.
While at SP Jain Global, I had access to valuable resources like the Financial Times and Thomson Reuters, which helped me stay ahead of industry trends and provided material for engaging discussions with professionals.
Overcoming Challenges and Setbacks
One of the most significant hurdles I encountered was transitioning from design to finance. As someone with a background in design, I found it challenging to catch up with my peers who were already well-versed in finance. However, my peers were extremely helpful, and group studies were crucial in getting me up to speed. The camaraderie and willingness to help each other fostered an environment where collaboration was key to overcoming challenges.
In addition to peer support, networking and mentorship played a pivotal role in my development. Whether through alumni, faculty, or industry professionals, the guidance I received helped me navigate the obstacles I faced. I was mentored by a faculty member with extensive investment banking experience, which helped me gain the skills required for today’s market.
Leveraging Internships, Certifications, and Soft Skills
Although I started the MGB program as a fresher, S P Jain provided ample opportunities to develop the skills and knowledge required to succeed in the corporate world. The Coursera certifications offered by the institution were particularly valuable in enhancing my CV, giving me knowledge beyond the classroom experience. The Professional Readiness Program (PRP) was instrumental in helping me refine my soft skills, such as communication, problem-solving, and teamwork. These skills have proven invaluable as I navigate my career in finance.
One of the highlights of my academic experience was the opportunity to work on group projects like the SBR and GIP, which allowed me to apply the concepts learned in class in real-world scenarios. The International Business Research course pushed me to my limits, demanding advanced application of what we had learned. These hands-on experiences solidified my learning and prepared me for the challenges of the corporate world.
Placement Support and Career Guidance
S P JainGlobal’s Corporate Relations (CR) team and the Professional Readiness Program (PRP) team worked in tandem to ensure that students were placed in their dream companies. The CR team can be considered a ship, while the PRP team acts as the navigator, helping students align their skills with their career aspirations. From day one, the PRP team helped me understand my career goals through one-on-one sessions, helping me build the right profile for the job market. By the time placement season arrived, I was already ahead of the curve with a polished CV and the skills needed to crack interviews.
The combination of networking, industry insights, and practical skill development was key to landing the kind of job I desired. SP Jain Global encouraged us to build the proper skill set throughout the program and actively engage with industry professionals, ensuring we were well-prepared for the competitive job market.
About the Author
Currently working as an investment banker at a global investment bank covering US markets, Kartik holds a degree in Master of Global Business with a specialisation in Global Finance. His career journey took an unexpected yet fulfilling turn, transitioning from a Bachelor of Design in Bangalore to the world of finance and Investment Banking. Today, Karthik is excited about his role in investment banking, with a keen focus on the US market, having achieved his dream of working in this field.
