Financial Advisory Industrial Placement Review

This is an analyst role within the financial advisory arm of Lazard. This largely involves dealing with Mergers and Acquisitions processes as well as other strategic / corporate advisory for clients. This job requires extensive use of Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint, conducting numerical analysis, research tasks, and creating presentations for clients, as well as communicating with clients over email.

In this role, I greatly developed my skills on Excel and using keyboard shortcuts to navigate different Microsoft platforms. I also developed my teamwork skills, working directly with several others towards a common goal. My time management skills greatly improved, learning to maximise my efficiency to meet a stringent deadline. Finally, I developed my professional communication skills in directly liaising with clients in-person and over email.

I was given a great deal of responsibility on my placement. As I grew in confidence in my role, I was given stewardship of more and more projects and by the end of my placement, I was the only analyst on a project working directly with associates and above. I was entrusted to communicate directly with clients and take ownership of meetings.

I received a great deal of support on my placement. I had 2 specifically designated members of the team, an Analyst Buddy and Career Sponsor, who mentored me throughout my time at the Bank. In this mentorship, they not only taught me a great deal about the industry but we also did social things outside the office such as lunches. My wider team also gave me meaningful support and guidance inside and outside the office.

The company culture and general atmosphere was welcoming, positive, and nurturing. Throughout my placement, I established lasting friendships with my colleagues not only through working collaboratively, but also in the plethora of social activities that we did outside the office such as off-sites, ski trips, and pub trips. Not only in my team but across the Bank did social activities take place, such as summer BBQs and boardroom drinks which created a friendly general atmosphere.

I thoroughly enjoyed my placement year and was incredibly sad when my internship came to a close. Not only did I learn a great deal about Mergers and Acquisitions, the different sectors, and investment banking, but I made incredible memories both inside and outside the office including team BBQs, ski trips, and celebratory lunches. It was a truly fantastic year!

Yes

I would advise doing thorough research on the company before applying. This will be crucial when progressing through the later stages of the application process, particularly in final interviews. I would encourage having an awareness of company values, structure, and any initiatives that you are interested in. But throughout the process, remain authentic and true to yourself because they take a genuine interest in you and want to get to know you!