Global Advisory Spring Insight Programme Review

The programme involved information sessions provided by both members of the graduate recruitment team and bankers of differing levels of seniority. We were each assigned 'buddies' - junior bankers - who we could network with. We were also placed into groups and set a task to create a slide deck evaluating opportunity for M&A between two companies. On the final day, we presented this to bankers and received verbal feedback on our performance after answering questions from the panel.

I used the project as an opportunity to develop my modelling skills - creating a DCF model in excel to value the target company. Also was a great chance to develop my networking skills alongside my general awareness regarding banking. There was also a technicals training course, which brought those of us who didn't study finance up to speed on accounting definitions, the process of M&A, IPOs and other major financial transactions facilitated by firms such as Rothschild & Co.

The programme served as an introduction to Rothschild & Co's M&A, debt and restructuring and equity advisory businesses, giving me a valuable insight into life as a banker at Rothschild & Co. This was made even better by the countless chances to network with bankers directly and on a one to one or two to one basis, allowing us to ask questions and really get an insight into the day to day. The programme really confirmed to me that this is a career path I wish to pursue.

While the programme was virtual, the culture was communicated very well to us not only verbally but simply by speaking to the types of people that work at the firm - the intangibles shone through positively. Every seems really friendly and there definitely is a very collegiate culture and work environment. It seems like, despite the phenomenal deal flow, the bankers avoid creating a merciless culture and I in fact think this likely promotes the productivity of the firm.

I really enjoyed the insight. I had done work experience at the firm before (the Pioneer Programme during high school) and it was great to see some familiar faces but having a more involved project that was relevant to the type of work I would be doing if I was to pursue such a career was really interesting and appealed to me. It allowed me to decide that this was a career for me and one that I would pursue.

Yes

I would really focus on the cultural aspects of the firm. While Rothschild & Co is known for their phenomenal deal flow and performance (particularly within Europe), I think speaking to employees and learning about the culture and what they like about the firm through networking is the best way to figure out if you would fit in but also find good ways to articulate why you would like to work there. It is vital to be yourself and Rothschild & Co really promotes that.