Financial due diligence analyst Review

Day to day responsibilities include: performing analysis in excel on a company's financials, highlighting any key trends / issues; assisting in drafting question and answer packs which are used to aid discussion with Management surrounding their financials in order to gain a deeper understanding of certain areas; attending these Q&A sessions and taking notes; assisting in drafting a final report.

As you gain experience, the amount of responsibility you are given increases. Now towards the end of my placement I feel I have a meaningful impact on all stages of the due diligence process - be that producing the tables / charts which we present in the report, drafting sections of the writeup, drafting Q&A packs and then posing questions to management. I know that as a result of the deal market being busy I have been given more responsibility than prior placement students, as a result there have been times where I have needed to work longer hours, however, on the whole the culture at RSM very much encourages a positive work-life balance.

Greatly improved my excel skills - comprehensive training provided over the first few weeks, plenty of further opportunities to receive training throughout my placement. Encouraged to learn alteryx, whilst this is a more self led training, materials provided are still very useful. Deepened my technical understanding - gain knowledge on different items which sit within the financial statements, how these are accounted for etc. Soft skills developed such as communication, time management / prioritisation, email writing, critical thinking. Gain insight into the workings of businesses in a range of industries - how they operate, what risks they face.

Plenty of guidance - everyone in the team (including directors / partners) are extremely approachable and happy to help with any issues / questions. Additionally assigned a line manager and buddy (a colleague who is of a similar level) who were there to ensure I was doing well.

On the whole very good - everyone is very positive, welcoming, and happy to assist with anything, a strong work life balance is encouraged - if you need to work longer hours you will usually be able to get those back. Would maybe be nice to have slightly more social opportunities after work however I think that this varies between teams and offices.

Overall has been a brilliant experience - I have hugely increased my technical and analytical skills, and built some great relationships. I have gained a lot of experience and confidence and am looking forward to returning after my final year of university.

Yes