Considering corporate finance pivot from asset management
I am a few months into my first role which is an analyst on a multi asset team at a large institutional investor. I was not totally sure what I wanted to do and this was the only offer I had so I took it. After starting, I am not sure I enjoy markets enough for this type of role. My manager has also really pushed me and has not taught me anything. He also has criticized me leaving at 6 even if I have nothing to do and has tried to show he has power over me by forcing me to work until 9 pm as punishment for not staying as late as he wants. The role is also not super analytical and I may prefer something with more modeling. Would fp&a offer that, I don’t really want to do accounting either, but I’d prefer something that is more deliverable based and more 9-5?
Based on the most helpful WSO content, pivoting from asset management to FP&A could align well with your preferences, but there are a few nuances to consider:
FP&A Analytical Nature: FP&A roles can vary significantly. Some positions are more "vanilla," focusing on monthly reporting, variance analysis, and budget vs. actuals, which might feel less analytical and more accounting-like. However, "strategic" FP&A roles involve financial modeling, forecasting, and driving decision-making processes, which could provide the analytical and deliverable-based work you're seeking.
Work-Life Balance: FP&A roles generally offer better work-life balance compared to asset management or investment banking. While there may be crunch periods during budgeting or forecasting cycles, the hours are typically more predictable and closer to a 9-5 structure.
Modeling Opportunities: If you're looking for more modeling experience, FP&A can be a good fit, especially in roles that emphasize strategic finance. These roles often require building and analyzing financial models to support business decisions, which could be a step up from your current role's lack of analytical depth.
Skill Development: To make yourself a strong candidate for FP&A, consider picking up skills in Excel, financial modeling, and potentially tools like SQL, Tableau, or Python. These are increasingly valuable in FP&A as the field shifts toward data and business intelligence.
Networking and Transition: Transitioning to FP&A may require internal networking or leveraging your current experience to highlight transferable skills like financial analysis, attention to detail, and working with numbers. If you're at a large institutional investor, there might even be internal opportunities to explore FP&A or corporate finance roles.
If you're looking for a role that is more deliverable-based, analytical, and offers a better work-life balance, FP&A could be a solid option. However, ensure you target roles that align with your interests in modeling and strategic decision-making rather than those that lean heavily on accounting tasks.
Sources: Strategic finance?, Anyone do both FP&A and Corp Strat or Dev?, Is FP&A corporate finance?, Finance Career Path & List, Corporate Finance Q&A with accountingbyday, BJM85, STorIB, and djfiii
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