Masters of Accounting trying to break into Consulting. Hopefully landing more of an M & A Role
Hi, as the title says, I am seeking to land a consulting gig. I have my undergrad in accounting and graduated manga cum laude. I am now pursing a masters of accounting at a semi-target. Me attending the semi-target has already opened up doors for me, getting to know partners at big 4 firms, that are also in consulting, just not M & A. (For clarification, these partners are friends of family). This being said, they seemed confident on me at least getting looked, but one of the partners really seemed to be pushing to stick to accounting and go into audit first. They were making it seemed M & A consulting is way different than accounting, but I am a bit confused because I feel like as a fresh grad student I will know a similar amount to someone who is graduating with a finance degree (ofc MBA should know significantly more).
So what I am asking is: should I strive for M & A consulting? I am worried I am pushing for too high of an industry and may miss the opportunity to go in big 4 totally, by trying for one of their higher roles as an associate, rather than just do audit first and try to maneuver my way in after I have been with the company for a year+.
Any advice?
Based on the most helpful WSO content, your situation is not uncommon, and there are a few key points to consider:
Direct Entry into M&A Consulting: While it is possible to break into M&A consulting directly, it is indeed a competitive space. Your accounting background and semi-target school can help, but M&A consulting often values prior experience in financial modeling, transaction services, or related fields. If you can demonstrate strong modeling skills and a clear understanding of M&A processes, you may have a shot. Networking with the partners you know and leveraging their connections could be a significant advantage.
Audit as a Stepping Stone: Many professionals have successfully transitioned from Big 4 Audit to M&A or Transaction Advisory Services (TAS). Starting in audit can provide you with a solid foundation in financial statements and client management, which are valuable in M&A roles. However, this route typically requires patience and strategic internal networking to make the move within the firm.
Alternative Pathways: If you are set on M&A consulting, consider exploring mid-tier firms with strong TAS or M&A advisory practices. These firms may offer more direct entry opportunities compared to the Big 4, and you can later lateral to a Big 4 or another prestigious firm.
Skill Development: Regardless of the path you choose, focus on building skills that are critical for M&A consulting, such as financial modeling, valuation, and transaction analysis. Certifications like CFA Level 1 or relevant internships can also strengthen your profile.
Risk of Overreaching: It’s wise to balance ambition with pragmatism. Applying for M&A consulting roles is worth a shot, but also consider audit or other advisory roles as a backup. Once you’re in a Big 4 firm, internal mobility can be a powerful tool to pivot into your desired area.
In summary, striving for M&A consulting is a great goal, but having a backup plan (like starting in audit or TAS) ensures you don’t miss out on the opportunity to join a Big 4 firm altogether. Use your network strategically, and focus on building the skills and experiences that will make you a strong candidate for M&A roles in the future.
Sources: Is Management Consulting just a glorified Audit?, Exiting Big Four (Audit) after 5 years and entering FP&A - Ask me anything, Q&A: Big 4 Audit -> TAS -> Private Credit, Big 4 Audit or Mid-Tier M&A Advisory to Break Into Finance, 3 years work experience in big 4, Ms Finance or MBA? Could you please give me some advice?
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