MBA Recruiter Interview: Courtney Storz, Citi

Citi is the US’s third-largest bank holding company by assets; however this certainly doesn’t mean individual MBAs can’t make their own mark on the company, says Courtney Storz, Citi’s director of NAM graduate recruitment and program management. But you can’t make a mark unless you have your foot in the door – so we spoke to Storz about just how you can go about doing that…

Citi is ranked 33rd on the Universum Ideal MBA Employer list. Why do you think so many MBAs want to work for Citi?

The associate programs at Citi are well established, reputable and prestigious. Our programs offer comprehensive training opportunities and a strong apprenticeship model, both of which are attractive to MBAs who are career changers and those who are re-entering finance. Alumni from our programs are given the tools that help them to be successful throughout their careers, whether they remain at Citi or go on to other notable accomplishments.

What makes Citi different from other finance companies that employ MBAs?

We have been selective in the way we approach our associate program hiring by targeting areas that can offer distinguished experiences for MBAs. Some programs offer direct placement into a group while others offer rotations, including international rotations. Citi also offers opportunities to have multiple careers within the same firm and across geographies.

What are the most common job roles for MBA graduates at Citi? Are most of these jobs located in Manhattan?

While the majority of US associates are currently located in New York City, Citi offers associate programs globally. In the US, we offer associate programs in investment banking, corporate banking, global consumer banking, finance, compliance, and human resources as well as our cross-franchise program, GEMA (Global Engagement Management Associate Program). Upon completion of the program, MBAs are eligible for VP level positions with the firm and have been given the skills to be innovative leaders with a strategic mindset.

What do you look for when evaluating a candidate’s résumé and experience?

A strong record of academic achievement, integrity, demonstrated success in previous work experiences, prior leadership roles and/or demonstrated capability and involvement in a community.

How many MBA students do you typically recruit each year from the US? How about globally?

Approximately 200 per year globally, with the majority of intake in the US. Hiring in 2015 is in line with our MBA hiring from last year.

How many MBAs intern at Citi? Of these interns, how many leave with full-time job offers?

We have approximately 200 interns in each class, and approximately 80% of our interns receive full-time offers to return.

Which business schools and MBA conferences do you recruit from?

We recruit from many of the top MBA schools around the world and participate in many of the reputable MBA conferences such as Forte Women’s MBA Leadership Conference, MBA Veterans Conference, TOIGO, Reaching Out MBA, MLT and the Consortium, to name a few.

What steps should MBAs take in order to make a good impression? Conversely, what are some common mistakes MBAs should avoid when contacting recruiters?

In order to make a good impression, MBAs should take time to research the companies and programs they are interested in joining, connect with alumni and members of the firm, and be able to clearly articulate why they feel that they will be a good fit.

When it comes to common mistakes, some MBAs seem to have a sense of entitlement or are too narrow minded in considering the opportunities that exist.

What are the biggest misconceptions that MBAs have about Citi and the finance industry?

There is a misconception that it's hard to make a mark at Citi given its global reach. Others believe that you have to be a banker to work in the financial industry. In reality, Citi's global footprint gives its employees the opportunity to collaborate with colleagues all over the world. Our people are also incredibly diverse, allowing us to learn and grow from one another. Citi has a rich history of enabling progress – from financing the Panama Canal to pioneering the ATM – and that’s what we do for our clients on their journey from ambition to achievement.