Interview with Ex-PE Principal Now Corp Dev Head
I have an interview at a very late stage pre-IPO startup for a mid-senior level hybrid FP&A / Corp Dev position with the current head of corp dev who is an ex-UMM PE Principal. I was told by HR that "he will evaluate your financial acumen, as well as how you think strategically about finance in an organization".
Has anyone had a similar interview to this in the past? Should I be preparing for PE interview style finance / accounting / LBO technicals or will it be something else? I feel well prepared for the later part (finance in an organization), but the "financial acumen" part is a little vague to me.
For context - my background is IB > PE > Corp Dev at a large corporate.
Based on the WSO threads, here's how you should approach your upcoming interview with the ex-UMM PE Principal for the hybrid FP&A / Corp Dev position:
Financial Acumen Evaluation: Given your background in IB, PE, and Corp Dev, you're likely familiar with the financial rigor expected in such roles. However, since the interviewer is an ex-PE Principal, you should definitely brush up on your LBO modeling skills, understanding of financial statements, and valuation techniques. These are common areas of focus in PE interviews and will demonstrate your technical proficiency.
Strategic Thinking about Finance: This part of the interview will likely assess how you apply financial insights to make strategic decisions within an organization. Be prepared to discuss how you've used financial data to influence corporate strategy, drive business growth, or manage risks in your previous roles. Think about specific examples where your financial analysis led to actionable insights that benefited the company.
Behavioral and Fit Questions: Since the role is at a pre-IPO startup, cultural fit and adaptability are crucial. Be ready to discuss why you're interested in this specific company and role, and how your experience aligns with the company's goals and culture.
Prepare Questions: Have insightful questions ready about the company's financial strategies, challenges, and the expectations for this role. This will not only show your interest but also your strategic thinking capability.
Review Relevant Materials: If possible, review the WSO Prep Pack or similar resources that cover both PE and corporate development interview questions. This will help you refresh your knowledge and also prepare for any curveballs in the interview.
Remember, the key is to demonstrate both your technical expertise and your ability to think strategically about finance within a corporate setting. Good luck!
Sources: Private Equity Recruiting Walkthrough – My Experience, How do the top students at Wharton and Ivey do it?, A Non-Target's Perspective - My MM PE Recruiting Process, My Path - MBA Banking Associate to PE, Q&A: Former Strategy& associate
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