A Day in the Life of an Investment Banking Vice President: Bridging Strategy and Execution

The Vice President (VP) role in investment banking is a pivotal bridge between senior leadership and junior team members. VPs are responsible for managing deal execution, mentoring associates and analysts, and ensuring that projects move forward smoothly. They are the “glue” of the deal team—balancing client demands, internal expectations, and the relentless pace of the industry. This article offers an in-depth look at a typical day for an investment banking VP, highlighting the challenges, responsibilities, and rewards that define this demanding role.

6:30 AM – Morning Routine and Market Updates

Most VPs start their day early, checking overnight emails and reviewing financial news before heading to the office. They scan Bloomberg, Reuters, and industry newsletters for market-moving events, sector news, and updates on ongoing deals. This early prep helps them anticipate client questions and stay ahead of developments that could impact their transactions.

• Review global market news and sector updates
• Check for urgent emails from clients, Directors, or Managing Directors (MDs)
• Organize a mental checklist for the day’s priorities

8:00 AM – Arrive at the Office and Team Check-In

By 8:00 AM, VPs are typically at their desks, ready to lead the day’s work. The first task is often a quick check-in with associates and analysts. VPs review the status of pitch books, financial models, and client deliverables, providing feedback and setting expectations for the day.

• Lead a morning team huddle to align on goals
• Assign tasks and clarify project timelines
• Mentor junior bankers and address any bottlenecks

9:00 AM – Deal Execution and Project Management

The bulk of a VP’s day is spent managing live deals—whether it’s an M&A transaction, IPO, or capital raise. VPs are responsible for keeping projects on track, coordinating between internal teams, clients, and external advisors. They review and refine materials, ensure deadlines are met, and troubleshoot any issues that arise.

• Oversee preparation of pitch books and financial models
• Coordinate with legal, accounting, and due diligence teams
• Manage data rooms and information flow between parties
• Anticipate and resolve execution challenges

VPs must be detail-oriented but also able to see the bigger picture, ensuring that all aspects of a deal align with client objectives and firm standards.

11:00 AM – Internal Meetings and Senior Communication

VPs frequently meet with Directors and MDs to update them on deal progress, flag issues, and discuss strategy. These meetings are critical for aligning on client messaging, negotiating tactics, and resource allocation.

• Present project updates and key risks to senior bankers
• Receive guidance on client strategy and next steps
• Coordinate on upcoming client meetings and presentations

VPs are expected to “manage up” effectively—keeping leadership informed while demonstrating ownership of their deals.

12:30 PM – Working Lunch and Networking

Lunch is rarely downtime. VPs often use this time for informal mentoring, networking with colleagues, or even lunch meetings with clients or industry contacts. Building relationships is key to long-term success in banking.

• Mentor associates and analysts over lunch
• Network with peers in other groups or firms
• Meet with clients or external advisors as needed

1:30 PM – Client Calls and Deliverable Review

Afternoons are filled with client calls, status updates, and review sessions. VPs present draft materials, field questions, and incorporate client feedback into deliverables. They also ensure that all communications are professional, accurate, and aligned with the firm’s standards.

• Lead client update calls and respond to questions
• Review and edit pitch books, memos, and presentations
• Coach junior team members on client communication

3:00 PM – Execution, Problem-Solving, and Firefighting

The pace picks up as deadlines approach. VPs are the first line of defense when problems arise—whether it’s a data discrepancy, a last-minute change in deal terms, or a technical snag in a financial model. They must quickly assess the situation, delegate tasks, and keep everyone focused on solutions.

• Troubleshoot deal issues and escalate as needed
• Coordinate with external advisors (lawyers, accountants, consultants)
• Ensure all deliverables are on track and high quality

5:00 PM – Senior Review and Approvals

As the day winds down, VPs prepare materials for final review by Directors and MDs. They check that all data is accurate, the narrative is compelling, and the materials are client-ready. This is also when VPs may prep for next-day meetings or finalize logistics for upcoming client presentations.

• Submit deliverables for senior review and approval
• Prepare for next-day client meetings or pitches
• Address any last-minute client or team requests

7:00 PM – Evening Wrap-Up and Team Debrief

VPs often stay late to ensure all loose ends are tied up. They may hold a quick debrief with the team, provide feedback, and plan for the next day. It’s also a time to check in with junior bankers, offer guidance, and recognize hard work.

• Hold end-of-day team check-in
• Provide feedback and recognize strong performance
• Update project trackers and personal to-do lists

9:00 PM – Personal Time and Professional Development

After a long day, VPs try to carve out time for themselves—whether it’s reading industry news, exercising, or spending time with family. Many also invest in professional development, staying current on market trends and honing their leadership skills.

• Read financial news or industry reports
• Reflect on team management and leadership
• Recharge for the next day’s challenges

Key Skills and Qualities of a Successful VP

• Project Management: Juggling multiple deals and deadlines with precision
• Communication: Translating complex ideas for clients and senior bankers
• Leadership: Mentoring and motivating junior team members
• Problem-Solving: Staying calm and resourceful under pressure
• Attention to Detail: Ensuring accuracy in all deliverables
• Business Development: Building relationships that drive future deals

Challenges and Rewards

The VP role is demanding—long hours, high expectations, and constant pressure to deliver. But it’s also a critical stepping stone to senior leadership. VPs gain invaluable experience in deal execution, client management, and team leadership. They are trusted to run deals, shape strategy, and develop the next generation of bankers. For those who thrive on challenge and responsibility, the rewards—intellectual, financial, and professional—are substantial.

Conclusion

A day in the life of an investment banking VP is a masterclass in multitasking, leadership, and execution. VPs are the engine of the deal team, ensuring that projects move forward, clients are satisfied, and teams perform at their best. It’s a role that demands resilience, adaptability, and a passion for finance—and for those who excel, it’s a gateway to the upper echelons of investment banking.

Sources

• Wall Street Oasis: Investment Banking VP Career Paths
• Harvard Business Review: “What Investment Banking VPs Really Do”
• eFinancialCareers: Investment Banking VP Interviews (2024–2025)
• Interviews with current and former investment banking VPs
• “Young Money: Inside the Hidden World of Wall Street’s Post-Crash Recruits” by Kevin Roose
• Bloomberg and Financial Times reporting on investment banking culture