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. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Alden Sulger 03:11 Navigating Investment Banking During a Pandemic 10:47 The Realities of Investment Banking Culture 17:39 Key Skills and Learnings in Banking 24:48 The Two-Year Analyst Experience 30:23 Transitioning to Corporate Development in Energy 35:38 Building an Operating Model for Synergies 37:11 Transitioning from DCC to Energy Exemplar 40:26 Team Dynamics in Corporate Development 41:51 The Impact of AI on Corporate Development 46:11 AI Disruption in Investment Banking 49:50 Networking Strategies for Career Advancement 57:26 Balancing Career and Personal Life