Investment banker

Interview with investment banker Günther Artner, CFA

Investment bankers work across a wide range of areas. One important part of their role is preparing and executing initial public offerings (IPOs). The job also requires extensive experience and the ability to remain calm under pressure, as Günther Artner explains in the following interview.

Mr Artner, you are an investment banker at Erste Group Bank AG. What are the responsibilities of an investment banker? What does the job involve?

Artner: Equity Capital Markets is part of investment banking and involves a wide range of exciting and varied responsibilities. We support companies throughout the entire process of an initial public offering (IPO) or capital increase, from initial preparations through to execution.

During the preparation phase, the bank develops a detailed understanding of the company through due diligence and helps shape the investment story for the IPO. At a later stage, equity research becomes involved. Based on comprehensive presentations provided by the company, analysts prepare their independent research reports and valuations.

The sales phase begins with analysts conducting pre-marketing roadshows, followed later by management roadshows. The Equity Capital Markets (ECM) banker supports and coordinates all of these processes. Strong project management skills, expertise in valuation, presentation skills and legal matters, as well as negotiation skills and effective expectation management, are essential.

What does a typical working day look like for you?

Artner: There really is no such thing as a typical working day. In principle, the role involves a combination of project execution and client acquisition, as well as the internal management of teams.

Day-to-day project work is primarily managed by the project leads, supported by junior team members, lawyers and colleagues from the syndicate desk. The business has particularly busy periods from April to June and from September to November, while the summer months tend to be quieter. Depending on where the client company is based, the role may also involve a considerable amount of travel.

What qualifications and skills do you need to work as an investment banker?

Artner: A genuine interest in the stock market and equity investing is essential, as is the willingness to spend long hours in the office when projects enter particularly intensive phases.

Experience is critical in this role, as negotiations on the client side are almost exclusively conducted with executive board members and/or company owners. A solid technical understanding of accounting and valuation is equally essential. In my own case, my many years of experience in equity research have also proved extremely valuable.

Are there any specific requirements that applicants should meet?

Artner: A university degree, excellent English skills, a strong willingness to learn, a client-focused mindset and the ability to perform well under pressure are fundamental requirements. Experience then develops over time.

Thank you very much for the interview!