Corporate Finance Analyst (M&A) Review

As an analyst I can either be working on live deals or helping win new work through targeting and business development. When working on deals I am expected to help the deal team by conducting research and analysis for example: buyer research, working capital analysis, EBITDA multiple maps etc. I am also expected to keep on top of admin to ensure that the deal process is running smoothly since there are so many moving parts. When I am not working on deals I am working on targeting, this is trying to identify potential new clients that RSM can build a relationship with. I will also work with the team to compile a tailored pitch document when tendering for new work.

My Excel knowledge has developed leaps and bounds since starting my placement. I am now confident using advanced formulas and navigating through a business model. I have also learnt a lot about putting together attractive and insightful documents using Powerpoint. This could be for things like pitches, buyer research documents, reports etc. My accounting/finance knowledge has improved, I am a lot more confident reading financial statements and with general industry terminology.

I was given meaningful work after the first week, the team made sure that I was given tasks that would help with my professional development. A lot of work is client facing and therefor requires responsibility.

As a placement student I was assigned a line manager and a graduate 'buddy'. Both check in with me regularly to see what I am working on and how my professional development is going. My line manager is very accommodating towards my needs. He/she regularly asks if there are any specific parts of the deal process I would like to gain exposure to and ensures I get it. My 'buddy' regularly helps me when I have questions or get stuck on tasks.

The Corporate finance team has a friendly atmosphere, colleagues work well together in a constructive and fun environment. Something that really stood out for me was how strict the team were about resourcing, they ensure that each team member has a fair amount of work. My line manager controls my workload and we have honest conversations if I have too much work on my plate. Rob Donaldson, the CEO does a company wide call every quarter to talk about the state of the business, future plans and to answer any questions. This provides employees with transparency and allows them to have have their voices heard.

I have thoroughly enjoyed my placement even though the majority of it was outside the office. I have really bought into the RSM brand and its ethos. The company provides an exciting and fast paced work environment where no two days are the same. This keeps me on my feet and means that I am constantly learning new things. I have had the opportunity to gain valuable work experience and transferable skills. The exposure to live deals are invaluable and is something that can't be taught in a class room.

Yes

Try and really understand what RSM does and where it's positioned in the market. Research specifically for the service line you have applied for. Demonstrate your uniqueness and why you would be a valuable asset within the team.