Investment Banking to Corporate Development: How Alden Sulger Built a Career in Finance

In this episode, Will and Ari sit down with Alden Sulger to trace his career path from college to investment banking and beyond. They cover what it was like to break into finance during a global pandemic, the reality of investment banking grind versus his expectations, and the skills that carry over transitioning to the buy side. Alden shares his experience in the energy industry, corporate development , and how AI is starting to reshape the apprenticeship model of finance. Alden dives into his experience with intentional networking, knowing when it's time to make a move, and how to maintain balance in a demanding career.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Alden Sulger03:11 Navigating Investment Banking During a Pandemic10:47 The Realities of Investment Banking Culture17:39 Key Skills and Learnings in Banking24:48 The Two-Year Analyst Experience30:23 Transitioning to Corporate Development in Energy35:38 Building an Operating Model for Synergies37:11 Transitioning from DCC to Energy Exemplar40:26 Team Dynamics in Corporate Development41:51 The Impact of AI on Corporate Development46:11 AI Disruption in Investment Banking49:50 Networking Strategies for Career Advancement57:26 Balancing Career and Personal Life