Interesting M&A Question

Monkeys,

I have recently been considering several M&A opportunities. While out for coffee with a colleague we discussed the pros and cons of each M&A group. To summarize, one group is well established with two MD's who bring in most of the business, while the other is a shop of similar size with a new senior manager running the show. The smaller shop is a Big 4 M&A group and the established group is a boutique (Both opportunities in British Columbia, Canada).

With this in mind, the nature of my work will be different at each of the groups; one focused on preparing pitching materials and modeling characterized by less involvement with overall deal experience and client meetings to pull in business. The less established group will consist of less deal flow but more client meetings and deal involvement.

My goal is to apply for a top 10 MBA or go into private equity. I am assuming my transaction experience will be the defining factor. Since my experience with each group will be different, which do you think is the most attractive prospect based on the factors given.

Thanks in advance.