In this episode of the 'Investment Banking Leaders Podcast', host Pete Nieberg interviews Armin Heuberger, a seasoned investment banker with over 25 years of experience, currently serving as the managing director and head of ECM for Germany and Austria, and equity linked in EMEA.

Based in Frankfurt, Heuberger shares his journey from starting his career at Merrill Lynch in New York, to his successful stint at Morgan Stanley in London, and finally leading the team at UBS.

Alongside his career development, he emphasizes the importance of versatility in investment banking, taking opportunities to learn across different sectors and products, and building direct relationships with investors.

Armin also discusses the shifts in banking culture post-Brexit and COVID-19, the balance between client demands and work life, and the significance of leadership style and team dynamics in driving success!

00:00 Meet Armin Heuberger: A Journey Through Investment Banking

02:47 Armin's Path to Investment Banking: From Apprenticeship to Expertise

05:25 The Essence of Investment Banking: Client Relationships and Deal Success

08:08 The Art of Execution in Investment Banking

09:43 Building Versatility and Skills in Investment Banking

22:05 Advice for Navigating and Succeeding in the Equity Space

25:05 Decoding Financial Metrics and Investor Insights

26:08 Cultivating Career-Defining Relationships

26:29 Strategic Advice for Aspiring Executives

27:11 Navigating the VP Level: Focus and Relationships

29:27 Leadership Style and Development at the VP Level

30:37 Exploring Personal Growth and Leadership Philosophies

34:23 Fostering Team Success and Recognition in Investment Banking

37:35 Adapting to Changes in European Investment Banking Post-Brexit

39:53 Balancing Client Demands with Team Well-being

43:11 Reflecting on a Career in Investment Banking

45:39 Final Thoughts and Personal Mantras

In this extensive interview, Dominic Lester, a seasoned investment banker with over 32 years of experience and current EMEA Head of Investment Banking and Joint Global Head of Technology at Jefferies, London, shares his journey from starting at Dylan Reed in New York to growing Jefferies' investment banking sector in EMEA.

He discusses Jefferies' evolution into a top global investment bank, focusing solely on M&A and capital markets advice without delving into wealth or commercial banking.

Dominic speaks about the transition from specialist to leader, emphasizing the importance of persistence, adaptability, and the power of persuasion in investment banking. He also touches on the dynamic nature of the industry, the challenges of leading and motivating teams, the value of client relationships, and the impact of AI and technology on investment banking.

Furthermore, he shares personal insights into the significance of embracing diverse cultures and experiences for professional growth and the importance of looking beyond immediate tasks to understand and influence the broader business landscape!

00:00 Meet Dominic Lester: A Titan in Investment Banking

00:28 Dominic's Journey: From Boutique Banks to Jefferies

01:51 The Essence of Jefferies: A Pure Play Investment Bank

04:12 Dominic's Personal Insights: Memory, Persuasion, and Success

07:13 The Art of Deal-Making: Strategies and Challenges

12:56 Dominic's Advice: Overcoming Challenges in Investment Banking

18:06 Choosing the Right Company: Leadership and Adaptability

22:53 Attracting and Building Talented Teams

28:37 The Balancing Act of Specialization and Leadership

30:34 Recognizing Success Beyond Financial Results

32:43 Personalized Motivation: The Key to Team Success

34:44 Leadership Development: Insights and Opportunities

36:25 Embracing Diversity and Change in Investment Banking

40:21 The Value of Cultural Adaptability in Global Business

43:57 AI's Role in Shaping the Future of Investment Banking

48:08 Reflecting on Career Growth and Advice for the Future

In this episode of the Investment Banking Leaders Podcast, we're joined by Maria Watts, Managing Director and Co-Head of Global Consumer Investment Banking at Baird in Chicago.

With over 20 years of experience in investment banking and a portfolio of transactions exceeding $30 billion, Maria shares her journey from an analyst at Stephens to her current role at Baird. She delves into her passion for recruiting, coaching, and developing talent within the industry.

Maria also discusses the importance of intellectual curiosity, team dynamics, and the intrinsic meritocracy of investment banking. She emphasizes the role of culture and mentorship in career development, offering advice for aspiring bankers at various stages of their careers.

Additionally, Maria touches on the impact of Covid-19 on workplace relationships and strategies for navigating current industry challenges. Her insights extend to the value of female leadership, the importance of data for leveraging AI in investment banking, and recommendations for personal development and navigating feedback.

The conversation concludes with personal anecdotes, including her skydiving adventure, and essential reading suggestions for professionals seeking growth!

00:00 Welcome to the Investment Banking Leaders Podcast with Maria Watts

01:40 Introducing Baird: A Global Middle Market Investment Bank

02:26 Maria's Unexpected Journey into Investment Banking

04:22 Skydiving Adventures: Maria's Thrilling Experience

05:34 Building a Successful Investment Banking Career: Strategies and Reflections

06:55 The Importance of Recognition in Investment Banking

08:49 Owning Your Career: Maria's Advice on Skill Development

13:07 Feedback and Evaluation: Navigating Challenges and Growth

14:44 Fostering Strong Peer-to-Peer Relationships in Investment Banking

18:46 Addressing Challenges and Opportunities for Analysts and Associates

23:01 Navigating Career Growth: Insights for Business School Graduates

24:34 Transitioning from VP to MD: Strategies for Success

27:25 Empowering Female Leadership in Investment Banking

34:51 Cultivating a Supportive Culture and Mentorship

37:15 Strategic Leadership and Navigating Industry Challenges

40:16 Embracing AI and Data for Future Success

41:57 Fostering a Positive Culture in Investment Banking

44:36 Personal Reflections and Advice for Aspiring Bankers

46:04 Recommended Reads for Personal and Professional Growth

47:32 Concluding Thoughts and the Value of Self-Reflection