Macquarie Capital

 

Arani University of Melbourne: Bachelor of Commerce and Bachelor of Laws (Honours) "Macquarie...recognises the importance of encouraging women to stay in finance."

 

Describe your role

My role seems to change everyday – from performing company valuations to researching all sorts of things about companies from a diverse range of industries. In just one year at Macquarie, I’ve been exposed to a broad range of tasks and industries, worked on a few live transactions and the common theme is that you’re always thinking from more than one perspective.

Why did you choose to work for Macquarie?

I chose to work at Macquarie because of its reputation as one of the largest and most successful corporate finance firm in Australia, which means that you not only get to work on some of the biggest deals across the world, but you also get to work and learn from the brightest people and be part of a larger team. 

What is it like working as a graduate at Macquarie?

From your first day, your contribution to the team in terms of work and ideas is encouraged and you’re given responsibility for many tasks which can be daunting. However whilst the work can be challenging, at Macquarie you are surrounded by a team that is more than willing to teach and pass on their knowledge to help you. As a result you will be amazed at how much you learn in just one year.

What are people that you work with like?

Its no secret that we work very hard to produce results for our clients, however at Macquarie this is made easier because everyone’s always able to stop and have a bit of a laugh. Senior executives also recognise the importance of exposing junior staff to clients and early client contact is quite common. Finally despite finance being a male-dominated industry, Macquarie, through its various mentoring programs, recognises the importance of encouraging women to stay in finance – this played a large role in my decision to come to Macquarie.

What was your most memorable experience been so far at Macquarie Capital?

The most memorable experience I’ve had so far at Macquarie was working on a successful transaction for a private equity client. Being the only analyst on the transaction from the beginning meant that I got to see through an entire process – from complicated modelling, having significant client exposure and being involved in the investment decision process for private equity. 

 

Andrew Analyst University of Technology, Sydney: Bachelor of Business (Finance and Accounting) “The work culture at Macquarie is focused on innovation and people.”

What level of responsibility are you given as a graduate?

From day one, the challenges you overcome and the contribution that you make to your team are rewarded with increased responsibilities and opportunities to use your initiative. The immediate learning curve can often push your comfort boundaries, but provides a strong platform to build a wide skill set and gain experience.

What is the work culture like?

The work culture at Macquarie is focused on innovation and people. It’s not about face-time or simply the ‘work-hard, play-hard’ mantra, but thinking creatively and coming up with the most innovative ideas. You will get more respect for thinking outside the box rather than run of the mill analysis, and the network of people inside Macquarie provides a great environment to develop professionally and personally.

Why did you choose to work at Macquarie?

Macquarie has a great reputation as one of the largest and most creative firms in Australia and it continues to build its presence overseas. I have found that the merchant banking aspect of Macquarie really separates itself from its peers, with the firm constantly looking to take positions alongside clients as well as investing in all levels of the capital structure. It is great to work alongside the people originating and executing these sorts of ideas.

What is a typical day for you?

In my experience, typical days do not really exist as an Analyst as you are constantly being exposed to new concepts and ideas, and working on different transaction work streams. My main responsibilities focus on modelling, valuation, research and most importantly finding solutions to intricate problems.

What do you enjoy most about your role?

The most enjoyable part of my role is the constant challenges and problems you encounter. All these experiences go a long way in building a strong skill set. The leaders at Macquarie consistently support your development, and through the moments of being thrown in the deep-end you gain the abilities and knowledge that allow you to add value and make a difference.