To begin with, a caveat, shifting to Investment Banking from a different job is almost impossible and extremely rare, especially at a mid-management level. A career in investment banking therefore must start early. There are two most desirable starting points to an investment banking career. The first is just after college graduation. At this level, fresh graduates are accepted for the position of analyst. The other starting point is after an MBA or post-graduation from a university. At this level, young bankers are accepted for the position of associate. In extremely rare instances C Level executives, like CEOs, CFOs, etc. from other industries make a lateral move as VP or SVP of an investment bank.