Industry leader, innovative business, exceptional talent
Pros
Morgan Stanley's wealth management business is an incredible platform that stands head and shoulders above its peers, with bright minds providing insightful, well-informed and executable guidance and thought leadership. If given the opportunity, high-level performers can be in a position to really shine and exhibit the type of service, expertise, and quality of advice the firm is known for and has built a stellar reputation on.
Cons
The opportunities for high-level performers, particularly at the mid-level stage, to display their expertise, capabilities and really add even more value to the business can be few and far between, especially for employees who don't naturally fit the mold and personality that could be a bit more old-school and dated (less a meritocracy, more a "popularity" contest). Morgan Stanley's efforts in ESG and diversity and inclusion have been remarkable and there has been significant progress, but there's still a long way to go (this is not just specific to the firm, but for the industry as a whole).