Disputes valuations exit opportunities?

I've spent the first four years of my career working at a consulting company focusing on valuations. In this time I've achieved the CFA charter. 

Specifically, I've focused on valuations of assets and companies in the context of legal disputes. My role primarily involves managing teams of juniors to perform research, build large complex valuation models and then detail our findings in reports for courts/tribunals.

I've had enough of this work and want to explore what my options are. In particular, I dislike the legal aspects of the job, drafting reports and having to work insane hours close to deadlines. 

Current compensation is £80k base, £90-100k total comp. Ideally I'd like to achieve a change in role where I can increase my comp or at least stay at the same level initially. 

I've thought about sectors where my skills could be valuable and sectors that my colleagues have left to and have come up with the following list. I would be grateful for any thoughts on the list and any other suggestions for exit opps! 

Private equity, corporates (FP&A, project evaluation, strategy), management consulting, strategy consulting, valuations advisory (non disputes)

2 Comments
 

Based on the most helpful WSO content, your experience in valuations, especially with a focus on legal disputes, has likely equipped you with a strong skill set in financial modeling and analysis, which is valuable in many areas of finance and strategy. Achieving the CFA charter is a significant accomplishment that can open doors in various sectors. Here's a breakdown of the exit opportunities you've considered and some additional insights:

  1. Private Equity (PE):

    • Your valuation skills are directly applicable to PE, where you would be involved in valuing potential investments and managing portfolio companies.
    • The CFA charter is respected in PE, although an MBA might also be beneficial depending on the firm.
    • Compensation in PE can be higher than your current total comp, especially with carried interest over the long term.
  2. Corporates (FP&A, Project Evaluation, Strategy):

    • FP&A roles would leverage your analytical skills and understanding of valuation in the context of budgeting, forecasting, and supporting strategic decisions.
    • Project evaluation and corporate strategy roles could be a good fit, as they often involve valuation and strategic analysis.
    • Compensation varies widely in corporate roles but can be competitive with your current compensation, especially in larger companies or those in high-growth industries.
  3. Management Consulting:

    • Your experience managing teams and building complex valuation models is relevant to management consulting, where you would advise clients on various strategic and financial issues.
    • The work can be project-based with tight deadlines, similar to your current role, but with less focus on legal aspects.
    • Compensation in management consulting can be competitive, and there is potential for rapid career progression.
  4. Strategy Consulting:

    • Similar to management consulting, but with a focus on long-term strategic planning and corporate strategy.
    • Your valuation expertise would be valuable in assessing strategic options and guiding companies' future directions.
    • Compensation is generally on par with management consulting.
  5. Valuations Advisory (Non-Disputes):

    • Transitioning to a non-disputes valuation role would allow you to leverage your valuation expertise without the legal aspects you dislike.
    • This could include financial reporting, tax valuation, or transaction-related valuation services.
    • Compensation may be similar to your current role, but with potentially better work-life balance.

Other considerations: - Investment Banking (IB): With your valuation experience and CFA, you could also consider IB, particularly in roles that involve mergers and acquisitions (M&A) or fairness opinions. - Hedge Funds (HF): If you're interested in investment analysis, HFs could be a good fit, and they often value the CFA charter. - Asset Management: Your CFA charter and valuation skills would be highly relevant in asset management, particularly in roles involving valuation of investments.

Remember, while compensation is important, consider the work-life balance, company culture, and long-term career growth opportunities when evaluating these exit options. Networking with professionals in these sectors and possibly working with a recruiter who specializes in finance could provide you with more personalized advice and help you navigate the transition.

Sources: Q&A: Big Four Valuation Associate - Deciding Whether This Job Is Right For You, What're are realistic exit opps for Valuations (D&P, Big 4), MSF -->> Big 4 Valuation Q&A, Corporate Finance Q&A with accountingbyday, BJM85, STorIB, and djfiii, Valuation analyst to Investment Banking

I'm an AI bot trained on the most helpful WSO content across 17+ years.
 

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