I'm 25 with a double degree in commerce and IT and have been in big 4 accounting working in transactions (Finance and IT transaction execution/ operations management consulting i.e. typically Separations/Integrations stream on any deal) for approximately 4 years.
Started my career at EY and was recently poached by another big 4 as a manager doing exactly what I did with the exception that I can be placed on more technical IT projects if and when I required. At 25, I'm probably the youngest manager in my division if not the firm. I attribute this to my ability to learn, exposure to unique circumstances on specific deals e.g. I was managing a whole sell-side before I left, and my clients vouching for me and the work I did; in this regard I am blessed. During my time at EY I also completed by CA.
Now, to back track, this year during my travels to the U.S I was fortunate enough to have been made an offer from a private company to do M&A integration (corporate development) by the CEO himself. The role still stand whether I took it then or 1-2 years from now because of my relationship with the CEO. This role is based in Los Angeles and is for a $bn corporate. I was also approached by another big-4 but the role was more of a horizontal step so I decided not to take it and go into get experience as a Manager within the same field.
I've decided that transactions, M&A integration and IT is definitely the path I want to take as I genuinely like the type of work, skills development and knowledge I am acquiring. I want to take my career to the next level though and was considering whether a career in either IB or Tier 1 consulting would be the right thing for me.
I'm considering applying for either USYD/UNSW MBA program also, cut-offs are 06 Jan 2017 so will need to act fast on this one.
I'm here seeking your advice.
"I've decided that transactions, M&A integration and IT is definitely the path I want to take"
If you want to focus on transactions even before it gets to the type of work that you have been doing - integration and IT, go with IB. They will give you exposure to deal negotiation, structuring the deals, etc. You will need to enjoy Finance - if you don't, you won't like it.
If you are happy with M&A integration and IT consulting work, go with consulting. You can still move "upstream" to focus on M&A strategy and IT strategy but all this comes after IB folks have played their part (assuming that deal had IB presence)
Hey Siyaram,
Firstly, I appreciate your response - I have been trolling this post for a few days.
I think you are spot on with your career advice. I enjoy finance and I perhaps I should look towards IB however I don't have a theoretical finance background. Will an MBA help me with this?
MBAs... My next consideration is part-time vs full-time in Australia and whether to even study in Australia. The general consensus from partners, CEOs etc. is that an MBA isn't required however If I were to do it I would want to ensure I reap the most benefit in terms of ROI.
If I do a part-time MBA I lock myself in for 2-years, limit opportunities to travel and work overseas (as I previously intended) and may not reap the full benefit. I have read this post here and am still on the fence.
Sorry for the delayed reply. I think you know the answer based on other posts in this thread. I am not familiar with Aussie schools and the IB market there. If I were you, I would definitely look at Top US Grad schools for MBA but also inquire about schools in Aussie. See how they are viewed in prestige by IB community there and also learn about their career placements. If you do MBA, you will want to make sure that you have easy on-campus recruiting access to the firms where you want to work at. Also, do full-time MBA if you can as that is so much easier if you are part of the "target" school.
An MBA in Australia isn't worth it given your experience and the career opportunity on the table. My advice would be to apply to top U.S. MBAs. If you don't get into MBA business schools ">M7 + Columbia, then you should forgo the MBA route and continue on your career path.
My 2 cents.
Thanks Esuric,
Could you please elaborate more on the career opportunity you mention?
Somebody doesn't like Columbia, huh...
Well done, sounds like a lucrative career opportunity you've got yourself there. I think you've got the answer already, pursue the opportunity and try and get into a grad school in USA. I am also a Sydneysider.. looking at a transition to Los Angeles this year. From one Aussie to another - go for it. USA is the place to be. Maybe tone down your egotism a bit though.. sounds like you have a ticket on yourself.
Hey mate,
I'm not egotistically but I can see how it came across that way. I realise there are heaps of people far more qualified and educated on here than I. I re-read my post and it represents me in a different light. I've made some edits.
What are you looking to transition to LA for?
Fair enough. Looking at a restructuring/turnaround opportunities atm. I don't have a great school behind me.. but when transitioning at a VP level, networks and experience is more valuable. LA mainly cause my sister is based there. Keen for something a bit different.
Good luck mate
"My background is diverse, deep and complimented by qualifcaitons"
Gold, had a good laugh thanks for that mate
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