Topgrad is currently recruiting talented graduates for a prestigious Big 4 company. This leading global provider offers audit and assurance, consulting, financial advisory, risk advisory, tax, and related services. The global network of member firms and related entities in more than 150 countries and territories serves four out of five Fortune Global 500® companies.

About the Division

The Financial Advisory team has been serving and advising corporations and private equity investors for many years on M&A transactions and restructurings. The breadth of Mergers & Acquisitions (M&A) experience and industry insight enables the delivery of value-added services, from strategy and execution through to integration and divestiture. The team advises on all aspects of M&A strategy, planning, and deal execution. They also provide access to an international network of contacts, in-depth industry knowledge, and local market insight. With their experience, knowledge, and tools, they deliver insights and advice that help clients avoid the many pitfalls of complex deals.

Job Description

The Financial Advisory Graduate position is a one-year fixed-term contract where participants will have the opportunity to rotate between Transaction Services, Valuations & Modelling, and Corporate Finance Advisory. The primary responsibility will be to support project teams in serving clients on relevant engagements.

By the end of the programme, participants will have achieved the following competencies:

• A fully integrated and complementary skill set within the M&A and broader corporate finance service offering, developed through on-the-job learning as well as technical training.
• Ability to analyse large and complex datasets into meaningful insights and outputs (i.e., client-ready reports, deliverables, etc.).
• Excellent client orientation and relationships.
• Established internal networks across the firm.
• Exposure to three of the service areas within Financial Advisory (i.e., rotation).

Responsibilities:

• Analyzing various sources of quantitative (AFS, management accounts, etc.) and qualitative data (contracts, agreements, etc.).
• Preparing robust and meaningful financial analysis.
• Conducting industry research (peer company research, etc.).
• Reviews of valuation models.
• Assisting in creating basic financial models.
• Preparation of client-ready deliverables (concept papers, information memorandums, reports, and board packs, etc.).
• Assisting professionals on client development and practice development assignments.
• Liaising with teams to ensure buy-in into the project.
• Reporting progress of work to management and clients.
• Communication with clients to understand needs and demands.
• Management of deadlines and reporting.

What is offered:

• Personal and professional development in a demanding and multidisciplinary environment.
• Solid continuous professional development in technical skills and knowledge and an excellent work environment and culture.
• Integration into a professional team whose values include serving with integrity and fostering inclusion among others.

Salary

Participants will be paid an annual salary ranging from £48,000 to £51,000. The firm is committed to ensuring the programme is accessible to everyone, so additional financial support is available for those who require it, including funds in advance if needed to book accommodation and/or travel for the programme.

Qualifications

Candidates should possess or be currently studying towards an honours degree in the following fields:

• BusSc or BCom Accounting (Non-CA) Honours Degree with Financial Accounting 3 / Accounting 3
• BCom Financial Management, Investment Management, Corporate Finance
• BSc Financial Science with Financial Accounting 3 / Accounting 3

About You:

Candidates with both analytical and creative minds will thrive in this role. The work goes beyond financial advisory, focusing on finding the smartest solutions to complex challenges while creating tangible value for clients, thereby living the purpose of 'Making an Impact that Matters' beyond profitability.

Technical Competencies:

• Knowledge and experience in MS Office.
• Advanced Excel skills are a key requirement.
• Problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Data analytics skills are an advantage.
• Familiarity with using the Internet for data research.
• Ability to multi-task.
• Strategic thinking ability.
• Good organisational skills.

Behavioural Competencies:

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to present oneself in a competent and professional manner to clients at all times.
• Conscientious approach to delivering results.
• Active participation and proactive attitude to service delivery.
• Ability to prioritise competing responsibilities.
• Self-starter with excellent drive and ambition.
• Demonstrate a broad approach to problem-solving.
• Ability to work efficiently and meet all deadlines.
• Show enthusiasm towards learning.
• Attention to detail.
• Develop a network within the broader firm, beyond Financial Advisory.

Application Requirements:

The application will only be considered complete if all the following documents are attached:

• Full CV
• Cover Letter

If there are issues loading multiple documents, combine the required attachments into one file/PDF and submit.

Only shortlisted candidates will be invited to the next stage of the recruitment process.