Deloitte: Monitor VS M&A?

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here's what you need to know:

1. Monitor Deloitte (Strategy Consulting):

   • Focus: Primarily on strategy projects, especially post-Monitor acquisition. The strategy work is often more intellectually stimulating but comes with longer hours (e.g., 16+ hour days for strategy projects compared to 8-10 hours for operational work).
   • Culture: Monitor Deloitte has been growing rapidly, especially in Europe, and offers opportunities to focus on pure strategy projects. However, getting on these projects often requires strong internal networking and references.
   • Compensation: Pay is above market in some regions, and the brand is well-regarded for strategy consulting.
   • Exits: Strong exit opportunities into startups, MBAs, or corporate strategy roles. Monitor's focus on strategy aligns well with your goal of moving into the startup space.

2. Deloitte M&A (Corporate Finance):

   • Focus: More on financial transactions, due diligence, and advising on cost restructurings or revenue growth strategies. This is a finance-heavy role and may not involve as much pure strategy work.
   • Culture: In Europe, Deloitte competes with investment banks in M&A and valuation, offering a more finance-oriented environment.
   • Compensation: Likely competitive, especially given the overlap with investment banking in some regions.
   • Exits: Strong exits into private equity, investment banking, or finance-heavy roles. If you're growing more interested in finance, this could be a good fit.

Key Considerations:

• Startup Aspirations: If your ultimate goal is to move into the startup space, Monitor Deloitte might be the better fit. Strategy consulting provides a broader skill set for tackling business challenges, which is highly valuable in startups.
• Finance Importance: If you're increasingly drawn to finance and want to build a strong foundation in financial analysis, M&A could be a better choice. However, keep in mind that strategy consulting often includes financial advisory components, so you won't entirely miss out on finance at Monitor.

Final Thoughts:

If you're still unsure, consider applying to both and using the interview process to gather more insights about the teams, culture, and work. Both paths offer strong career trajectories, but your decision should align with your long-term goals and interests.

Sources: Q&A - Leaving Deloitte Strategy Consulting After 2 Years, Deloitte S&O Brand, Cambridge Associates vs Strategy/M&A at F500