Transaction Advisory Services Senior Associate at RSM: A Deep Dive

RSM, a leading provider of professional services to the middle market, offers an exceptional opportunity for a Senior Associate to join its Transaction Advisory Services (TAS) practice, specifically within the Financial Due Diligence team. This role provides a platform to work with a nationally recognized Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A) Advisory practice, serving both corporate and private equity clients. The M&A group at RSM offers comprehensive services, guiding clients through readiness, diligence, transaction integration, and execution. This position is available in Chicago, Columbus, and Detroit.

Role Overview

As a Senior Associate in the Financial Due Diligence team, you will be responsible for performing financial due diligence for clients involved in acquiring or divesting businesses. You will play a critical role in client meetings and site visits, interacting with top-level management to gather essential information for financial analysis. The ultimate goal is to provide clients with detailed analyses that inform their acquisition decisions and financing requirements.

Day in the Life

A typical day for a Transaction Advisory Services Senior Associate at RSM might include:

• Client Interaction: Participating in meetings with clients and their management teams to understand the target business, its operations, and financial performance.
• Data Collection: Gathering financial data, including historical financial statements, forecasts, and other relevant information.
• Financial Analysis: Performing detailed financial analyses, such as trend analysis, ratio analysis, and variance analysis, to identify key performance drivers and potential risks.
• Report Preparation: Preparing reports and presentations summarizing the findings of the financial due diligence, including key observations, potential deal breakers, and recommendations.
• Team Collaboration: Working closely with other members of the transaction advisory team, including partners, managers, and other associates, to ensure the successful completion of the engagement.
• Communication: Communicating with clients, RSM colleagues, and other stakeholders to ensure that everyone is kept informed of the progress of the engagement.

Why Chicago, Columbus, and Detroit?

RSM strategically places its offices in cities like Chicago, Columbus, and Detroit to capitalize on the robust middle-market activity in these regions. Each city offers unique opportunities:

• Chicago: A major financial hub with a diverse range of industries, making it a prime location for M&A activity.
• Columbus: A growing metropolitan area with a strong economy and a thriving business community, particularly in technology and healthcare.
• Detroit: A revitalizing city with a rich industrial history and a growing entrepreneurial ecosystem, attracting significant investment and deal flow.

Career Path

RSM is committed to the professional development of its employees. The typical career path for a Senior Associate in the Transaction Advisory Services practice is as follows:

• Senior Associate: In this role, you will develop your technical skills, gain experience working on a variety of engagements, and build relationships with clients and colleagues.
• Manager: As a Manager, you will take on more responsibility for managing engagements, supervising junior staff, and developing new business.
• Senior Manager: As a Senior Manager, you will play a key role in leading engagements, managing client relationships, and contributing to the growth of the practice.
• Partner: As a Partner, you will be responsible for the overall success of the practice, including developing and executing the firm's strategy, managing client relationships, and developing new business.

Salary & Benefits

RSM offers a competitive compensation and benefits package that is designed to attract and retain top talent. While the exact salary for this role may vary depending on experience and location, the estimated range for a Transaction Advisory Services Senior Associate is $90,000 to $130,000 annually. The benefits package includes:

• Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Paid Time Off: Generous vacation and holiday time.
• Retirement Plan: 401(k) plan with company match.
• Professional Development: Opportunities for training, certifications, and continuing education.
• Work-Life Balance: Flexible work arrangements to support personal and professional needs.

RSM Culture

RSM prides itself on its culture, which is centered on empowering its people to realize their full potential. The firm fosters an environment that is inclusive, collaborative, and supportive. RSM is committed to providing its employees with the resources and opportunities they need to succeed, both personally and professionally.

How to Apply

To apply for the Transaction Advisory Services Senior Associate position at RSM, please visit the RSM Careers website and submit your application online. Be sure to include a resume and cover letter that highlight your relevant experience and qualifications.

FAQ

1. What is the typical work-life balance for a Senior Associate at RSM?

   RSM values work-life balance and offers flexibility in schedules. The firm understands the importance of balancing professional responsibilities with personal commitments.

2. What kind of training and development opportunities are available?

   RSM provides numerous training programs, mentorship opportunities, and resources for professional development, including technical training, leadership development, and industry-specific knowledge.

3. What are the key skills needed for this role?

   Key skills include financial due diligence, analytical abilities, communication skills, proficiency in Excel and PowerPoint, and the ability to work effectively in a team.

4. What is the travel requirement for this position?

   The position requires travel up to 10-15% locally and nationally, depending on client engagements.

5. How does RSM support diversity and inclusion?

   RSM is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued and respected. The firm has various initiatives and programs to promote diversity and inclusion, including employee resource groups, diversity training, and inclusive leadership development.

6. What is the interview process like?

   The interview process typically includes a phone screening, followed by one or more in-person or virtual interviews with members of the transaction advisory team. Candidates may also be asked to complete a case study or other assessment.

7. What are the opportunities for advancement within the Transaction Advisory Services practice?

   RSM offers clear career paths and opportunities for advancement based on performance and contributions. Senior Associates can progress to Manager, Senior Manager, and ultimately Partner.

8. Does RSM offer relocation assistance?

   Relocation assistance may be available for certain positions, depending on the location and the candidate's circumstances. This should be discussed during the interview process.

9. What types of clients will I be working with?

   You will be working with a diverse range of clients, including corporate and private equity firms, across various industries.

10. How does RSM give back to the community?

    RSM is committed to giving back to the community through various philanthropic initiatives and volunteer programs. The firm encourages employees to get involved in their local communities and make a positive impact.