Execution to Advisory Leadership.

Originate. Influence. Lead.

The Program

Foundation

    • Strengthen execution & deal leadership

    • Boost internal visibility through strategic positioning

    • Develop a proactive and strategic client mindset

Growth

    • Establish an independent sector-specific franchise

    • Initiate and lead high-value client relationships

    • Generate and pitch high-impact deal mandates

Mastery

    • Position yourself as a go-to advisor for clients

    • Build a sustainable revenue generating pipeline

    • Lead your franchise and build internal momentum

Navigate Your Path to Advisory Leadership

Too many high-performing bankers plateau before succeeding as an MD—not because they lack skill, but because no one ever taught them how to originate. This video introduces how Deep Lake Coaching helps Investment Bankers evolve from execution to advisory leadership—through real coaching, strategic clarity, and a bold mindset shift.

Meet Rahul Bala

Rahul brings nearly two decades of investment banking experience across Goldman Sachs, Citigroup, RBC, and Santander, where he advised C-suites and boards on over $50 billion in M&A and financing transactions. Most recently, he served as Head of U.S. Fintech Investment Banking at Santander.

Now, as the founder of Deep Lake Coaching, Rahul helps high-performing Vice Presidents, Directors, and early MDs make the critical transition from execution to origination. His coaching is designed for bankers who are technically strong but looking to become commercially indispensable—those ready to lead with clarity, generate business, and build a lasting franchise.

Based between NYC and Charlotte with his wife–the CFO at home and at work– and their 7-year-old daughter, the undisputed CEO.

Testimonials

  • “From Execution to Confidence” – VP, Investment Banking

    Rahul has a calm, steady presence that creates space for real growth. Through our coaching conversations, I’ve learned how to reflect more intentionally, recognize where I get in my own way, and operate with more focus. He doesn’t tell you what to do—he helps you find your own answers. That’s made me more confident in my judgment and how I show up every day.

  • “Executive Clarity in High-Stakes Moments” – CFO & Board Member

    “Rahul was a constant anchor throughout my leadership transition. His coaching helped me tap into clarity during high-stakes moments and reminded me to trust myself. He doesn’t offer quick fixes—he guides you to deeper answers and lasting capability. Our work helped me navigate board dynamics, advocate with conviction, and lead with purpose. I always left our sessions clearer, calmer, and more empowered.”

  • “Stepping into Strategic Leadership” – Associate, Investment Banking

    “Coaching with Rahul has been a game changer for how I approach my career. He helps you see the bigger picture—how your mindset, habits, and internal narratives shape everything from your client interactions to your leadership presence. He listens deeply, challenges directly, and always brings it back to what matters most. I’ve shifted from just executing well to thinking like a long-term value creator.”