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The Harrison Rush/Fire Drill Weekly Wrap-Up

A Brief, Reliable, Rundown of the Investment Banking Recruiting Market.

May 08, 2025

MARKET UPDATE

EVERYTHING IS “MEH”

Let’s not sugarcoat it — M&A activity still plays emotional Jenga with the markets. Dealmakers are getting antsy, but policy uncertainty, tariff talk, and shaky confidence keep many pens uncapped.

The Good News
In March 2025, the deal value for U.S. transactions over $100M increased (EY, 2025). Nothing says confidence like buying a cloud SaaS company and a defense contractor in the same quarter. Plus, the D.C. brain trust is hard at work negotiating new trade deals.

The Bad News
While big-dollar transactions helped mask the dip, overall volume is like the slow, steady drip of Aunt Millie’s IV.

True Stories and Pro-Tips

Your story: “Burnt out” isn’t a story. “Looking for stronger deal flow and greater exposure” is a euphemism. Use it.

Keep your resume to one page unless you’ve closed a deal. PowerPoint decks do not count.

Conversations Heard in Lateral Interviews

  • “Why are you looking to leave?”
    → “I'm not — my VP just called me during my grandmother's funeral. Twice.”

  • “What’s your motivation for this move?”
    → “I'd like to spend my 20s working 80 hours a week somewhere new.”

Associate Boston

Job Title: Associate 1 – TMT & Healthcare IT M&A Location: Boston, MA Firm Type: Boutique Investment Bank Employment Type: Full-time About the Firm We are a leading boutique investment...

jobs.crelate.com/portal/harrisonrush/job/1majw95waqf8qhf8izriksnamy?crt=1746720960415

Vice President Biopharma

Here’s a detailed job description for a Vice President (VP) in Biopharma Investment Banking — tailored to how it's typically structured at a bulge bracket or boutique investment bank: Job Title:...

jobs.crelate.com/portal/harrisonrush/job/dj4p84funxxbhqoe3331bffh4w?crt=1743520085059

Vice President, Tech M&A

The Vice President must have a track record of closed Public-to-Public M&A. The ideal candidate should come from Bulge Bracket or Elite Boutique.

jobs.crelate.com/portal/harrisonrush/job/3wrkdtbjgtps8kfyzytf8geqwr?crt=1738681847699

Associate Tech M&A

The Associate must have 1+ years of tech M&A experience from a middle market or bulge bracket bank.

jobs.crelate.com/portal/harrisonrush/job/u5o96jkw3k8eqdq6bakserdrcy?crt=1736963900969

Associate Digital Infrastructure

An Investment Banking Associate role focused on digital infrastructure M&A and capital markets can be an exciting opportunity. Here are some key areas to consider for success in this role: skills and...

jobs.crelate.com/portal/harrisonrush/job/nzhepb1c3hfwtgh8r9ifdxg81a?crt=1739300350111

In Memory of Carter:

Many news outlets are reporting on the causes of death surrounding Carter McIntosh, the Associate in Dallas. Carter was a 28-year-old Investment Banker found dead in his apartment last January. In remembering Carter McIntosh, it's essential to focus not on the circumstances of his passing but on his profound impact on those around him. Carter was a devoted son, a cherished brother, and a close friend to many. His warmth, dedication, and the joy he brought into the lives of others leave an indelible mark. As we mourn his loss, let us honor his memory by celebrating the relationships he nurtured and the positive influence he had on his friends and family. Carter's presence will be deeply missed, but his spirit endures in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. His passing is a poignant reminder that life is fragile and fleeting — and that now, more than ever, we must make time for what matters most, pursue what we love, and be fully present with the people who bring meaning to our lives.

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