
Emelie Zhao
5.0
(7)
Break into IB | Citi Analyst that Supported Recruiting w/ PE Exit
Studied at KTH Royal Institute of Technology
Works at Axcel
Questions? Start chatting with this coach before you get started.
Emelie's Coaching Offerings
Custom hourly · $80/hr
Get help with AI Automation, AI Deck Building, and .
Emelie’s Investment Banking Qualifications
Experience level: Associate
I'm Emelie, an experienced investment banking professional with a strong background in both academia and industry. With three years of experience in top-tier investment banking at Citi, I developed a strong understanding of what it takes to succeed in one of the most competitive industries. At Citi, I worked in Nordic Investment Banking, gaining hands-on deal experience across M&A and capital markets while collaborating with senior bankers and clients. Just before my associate year, I successfully exited to private equity and joined Axcel, one of Nordics' most prominent private equity firms. In addition to my deal work, I was actively involved in recruiting and interviewing candidates, which gave me direct insight into what banks look for in top applicants, from technical preparation and resume positioning to interview performance and cultural fit. This experience allows me to help candidates understand how to stand out in a highly competitive process. My passion for mentorship stems from my own journey into finance, where mentors played a key role in my development. I know firsthand how valuable the right guidance can be when navigating recruiting, preparing for interviews, and building confidence in technical skills. I’m committed to helping aspiring investment bankers break into the industry by sharing practical advice, honest feedback, and a structured approach to preparation. I hold a Master of Science in Applied Mathematics from KTH Royal Institute of Technology, with exchange studies at The University of Texas at Austin.
Emelie can help with:
AI Automation
AI Deck Building
AI Financial Modeling
AI Fundamentals
Behavioral Interview Prep
Cover Letters
Due Diligence
Financial Analysis
Financial Modeling
Freelancing
General Exploration
Investment Banking Strategy
LinkedIn Review
Mergers & Acquisitions
Networking Strategy
Promotion Strategy
Resume Review
Salary Negotiation
Skill Building
Technical Interview Prep
Valuation
About Emelie
I was born and raised in Sweden, but my parents are Chinese, which gave me a multicultural upbringing and an international perspective from an early age. I spent a significant amount of time between continents growing up and speak four languages. This international background has shaped both how I approach my career and how I connect with people from different cultures and professional paths. My path into finance was not entirely traditional. I come from an engineering family and studied mathematics at university. When I began university, I knew very little about careers in investment banking or finance. Lacking direct exposure to the industry, I had to learn and navigate the process myself and despite this, I successfully broke into investment banking at Citi and later transitioned into private equity. My quantitative background has proven to be a strong advantage, particularly as the industry becomes increasingly analytical and data-driven. With the growing influence of AI and automation, technical and mathematical skills are becoming even more relevant. Outside of work, I am a very active person. I am a marathon runner and enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and hiking. Traveling and cooking are two of my biggest passions, and I enjoy exploring new cultures through food. Earlier in life, I was also a classically trained pianist and completed professional certifications through ABRSM, an experience that taught me discipline and the value of long-term dedication. In my coaching, I focus on providing practical, honest, and structured guidance. Breaking into investment banking or private equity can seem complex and opaque, but with the right preparation and strategy it is absolutely achievable. I enjoy helping candidates better understand the process, refine their approach, and build the confidence needed to succeed.
Why do I coach?
Throughout my career, I have been fortunate to have mentors who had a profound impact on my development. At several points along my journey, particularly early on, I experienced moments of self-doubt about whether I truly belonged in such a competitive industry. During those times, my mentors believed in me even when I struggled to believe in myself. Their support, guidance, and encouragement helped me build the confidence and perspective I have today. I am deeply grateful for the role they played in shaping my career, and that experience is a large part of why coaching matters to me. I understand how valuable it can be to have someone who provides honest advice, practical guidance, and encouragement during important career decisions. Through coaching, I hope to offer that same support to others.
Work Experience

Investment Manager
Axcel
January 2025 - Present
Interviewer
Private equity investment professional. Portfolio companies and Board Observer: AGRD Partners, Vetopia

Analyst, Investment Banking
Citi Bank
July 2022 - November 2024
Interviewer
Nordic Investment Banking, Generalist working with M&A and ECM. Deal experience include: - Telia's sale of TV4 to Schibsted - Valedo's sale of Joe & the Juice to General Atlantic - Beijer Ref's SEK 14bn rights issue - Bridgepoint's sale of Diaverum to M42 - Oaktree's sale of OSM Thome to JPM - Norsk Hydro's sale of Alunorte and Mineracao Rio do Norte to Glencore
Emelie was also given offers to work at

Morgan Stanley

Lincoln International

Danske Bank A/S
Education

KTH Royal Institute of Technology
Master of Science, Industrial Engineering and Management
2017 - 2022
Master in Applied Mathematics with a specialisation in Financial Mathematics. Exchange studies at The University of Texas at Austin in Industrial Engineering and Management 2019. Part of Student Committee, Welcome Reception and several other student organisations and initiatives.
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