JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon has issued a stern warning to new and incoming analysts: accept a job elsewhere before or during your initial 18 months, and you’ll be fired.
The directive, circulated in an internal memo from JPMorgan’s global banking co-heads, reinforces Dimon’s growing frustration with early job-hopping — especially the trend of analysts accepting private equity offers within their first year. The memo states clearly: “If you accept a position with another company before joining us or within your first 18 months, we will rescind your offer or terminate your employment.”
This clampdown comes amid heightened tensions over early “on-cycle” recruiting, where top talent is poached by private equity firms even before they complete their first year in banking. Dimon has previously criticized the practice as “unethical,” arguing it creates conflicts of interest and undermines client trust.
In response, JPMorgan has shortened its analyst program from three years to two and a half, aiming to reward loyalty and fast-track promotions. Attendance at training and meetings has also been made mandatory, with a strong emphasis on compliance.
Industry insiders remain divided. Some believe Dimon’s tough stance will help curb premature exits, while others question whether such policies are enforceable in today’s competitive talent market.
As Wall Street battles for junior talent, JPMorgan’s message is clear: commitment matters — and loyalty isn’t optional.
