Corporate Finance Careers in Public Practice
At Wavelength, we specialise in recruiting for the accountancy profession, including the exciting and dynamic field of Corporate Finance. Whether it’s a boutique firm focused solely on corporate finance, a larger firm with a dedicated team, or a general practice dabbling in deals as needed, corporate finance offers a variety of opportunities for professionals to grow and excel.
So, what does corporate finance work look like in Public Practice?
Key Areas of Focus:
- Lead Advisory:
This involves managing mergers, acquisitions, disposals, and management buy-outs. As a Lead Advisor, you’ll search for opportunities, match businesses, and guide transactions to completion. You’ll structure deals, ensure regulatory compliance, and collaborate with other professionals like finance providers, solicitors, and business owners. Strong communication, coordination, and project management skills are essential here. - Transaction Services (Due Diligence):
This area involves conducting business and financial reviews, specialist investigations, and working capital assessments to support transactions. It’s about ensuring the numbers add up and identifying risks to help deals succeed.
Is Corporate Finance Right for You?
Professionals in this field often describe it as exciting, fast-paced, and creative. The high-pressure environment—where deadlines are critical to avoiding deal collapses—offers a challenging yet rewarding career path.
Key Qualities for Success:
- Strong analytical and commercial skills.
- Excellent communication and writing abilities.
- A proactive, team-focused attitude.
- The ability to handle pressure and meet tight deadlines.
What You Need to Get Started:
Corporate finance is a competitive field, often requiring first-time passes in accountancy qualifications and relevant experience. For Transaction Services roles, a solid audit background can be a good foundation, while Lead Advisory positions typically require prior corporate finance experience.
The Rewards:
In addition to financial benefits, corporate finance provides exposure to high-profile deals, the chance to influence a company’s strategic direction, and unparalleled career development opportunities.
If you’re post-qualified and looking to step into a challenging, rewarding field, corporate finance could be the perfect fit for your next career move. Let Wavelength help you find the right opportunity!