From intern to MD

Big careers don’t start big. Two newly promoted managing directors (MD) share the experiences that stretched them, shaped them and moved them forward.

The journey to managing director is rarely a straight line – and reaching it after starting as an intern is even rarer. Newly promoted MDs Clara Comellini and Claudio Cina both began their career journeys at our firm. Their journeys show that careers aren’t shaped by a single moment, but by the challenges we embrace, the relationships we build and the opportunities we seize.

Career-defining moments often arrive before you feel ready. For Clara, it was pitching to Global Banking clients as the most junior person in the room. For Claudio, it meant advising some of our most sophisticated institutional clients and solving complex cases across the business. Both learned that growth takes place when things get tough.

Their growth was supercharged by leaders who trusted and mentored them early on, saw their potential and stretched them. That trust came with guidance, feedback and room to experiment. Today, Clara and Claudio lead the same way: focusing on clients while empowering team members, encouraging them to take ownership and creating space for them to grow into their strengths.

Relationships matter. Claudio’s cross-divisional experience became one of his greatest assets, helping him “connect the dots” across our firm. And collaboration, mentorship and learning from senior colleagues shaped Clara’s leadership style. Both recommend building meaningful connections early on – and nurturing them.

We believe careers aren’t one‑size‑fits‑all. That’s why we support our people with opportunities to explore new paths, learn from others and shape what comes next. Just as important, though, is the mindset you bring.

Taking ownership means being intentional about your development, staying curious about what’s possible and having the confidence to embrace change. With the right support and a willingness to step beyond the familiar, you can navigate your career in a way that’s uniquely yours - and build a future that reflects your ambitions.