Entry-Level Positions For Aspiring M&A And Partnership Integration Managers
Greyson, a Senior M&A and Partnership Integration Manager, advises that direct entry into a similar role post-undergrad is difficult; the most common entry point is through consulting firms like McKinsey or the Big Four, or pursuing an MBA. However, building a foundation in business operations roles, or roles in "sales, marketing, customer support, customer success," within larger corporations, provides valuable experience in understanding business functions—critical for M&A work, which involves "how do you take one business and fit it inside another?".
M&A Consulting, Business Operations, Financial Analysis, Problem-Solving, Analytical Mindset
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Greyson Gardlik
Sr. M&A and Partnership Integration Manager
Zillow Group
University of Arizona
N/A
Business Management & Admin, Entrepreneurship
Real Estate, Advertising, Communications & Marketing
Business Strategy
None Applicable
Video Highlights
1. Entry-level positions in M&A are hard to get directly after undergrad, but consulting (e.g., McKinsey, Bain, BCG, Big Four) offers a common entry point.
2. An MBA can be a helpful stepping stone to an M&A career, either through consulting or directly into M&A roles.
3. Business operations roles in larger companies provide valuable experience in understanding company functions and problem-solving, which are crucial for M&A integration and deal success. These roles build a strong foundation for an M&A career
Transcript
What entry-level positions are there in this field that an undergraduate college student might consider?
In my current role, leading the M&A function, it's challenging to find a job right out of undergrad in a corporate tech company. A common pathway is through consulting firms like McKinsey, Bain, or BCG, or through Big Four M&A consulting.
This route is often easier because these firms hire directly from undergrad. Many people also pursue an MBA and then move into consulting or M&A roles post-graduation.
My own path was a bit different. I didn't need an MBA to reach my current career stage. My M&A experience over the years has been the key factor in my advancement.
This required dedicated effort to understand the essential skills needed for the next phase of my career: working in industry and leading companies, rather than just advising them in consulting.
Regarding internships or entry-level opportunities, there are many options. My work involves a lot of business operations. Therefore, any role out of undergrad in a larger or smaller corporate company that involves business operations and understanding a company's inner workings is valuable.
This experience is critical for developing the skills needed for the next level. M&A is essentially about integrating one business into another and ensuring its continued success.
There are various ways to get into M&A. Jobs requiring problem-solving and an analytical mindset are common, especially those with a finance background. However, other areas like sales, marketing, customer support, and customer success can also provide relevant experience.
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