Vault’s Verdict

The very prestigious Deutsche Bank has a fun, relaxed culture that, at times, can also be high-pressured and hectic. The firm is home to some of the smartest but most demanding senior managers on Wall Street. Insiders say that working for these managers is very rewarding and that your work and efforts are definitely appreciated. Hours can be long, but DB is among the more reasonable investment banks when it comes to workloads. As for diversity, insiders say the firm has many women in high positions and is diverse when it comes to minorities as well. Overall, employees are satisfied with their jobs, and the firm has a brighter outlook than many of its competitors. Insiders say that when the competition began laying off talented employees during the bear market, Deutsche Bank was selectively picking up some of the best minds in finance.

Note: The firm did not participate in our 2019 Banking Survey; all comments are from our surveys in previous years.

Hiring Process 

• “Interviews are surprisingly straightforward and much more friendly than I expected.”

• “Be willing to voice your interest but also be flexible. Make sure you have a passion for the job. If you are passionate about the position, conduct yourself well, and come to the interviews prepared, you will get at least past the first round.”

Quality of Life

• “DB has a good culture, though it’s not always the most team-oriented. If you’re not hard-nosed now, you soon will be.”

• “It’s a high-pressure environment, and it’s very hectic, with everyone being responsible for everything.” 

• “Working at Deutsche very rewarding and management definitely appreciates your efforts and contributions, and works hard toward creating a fun, relaxed environment.”

• “Though hours at all banks are awful, DB is among the more reasonable. I’ve only pulled a few all-nighters.”

• “The culture at Deutsche is pretty flat and open to meritocracy.”

• “Employees seem genuinely happy to be here, but not in a cultish, drink-the-punch sort of way, as at some other banks.”

• “Deutsche Bank is home to some of the smartest but most demanding senior managers on Wall Street.” 

Diversity, Philanthropy, and Green Initiatives 

• “Deutsche is a pretty diverse place, both in terms of race and gender. There are many women in high positions.”

Business Outlook

• “Don’t underestimate this firm’s competitiveness. When the competition began laying off talented employees during the bear market, Deutsche was selectively picking up some of the best minds in finance. This investment has started to pay off.”