How to prepare for a corporate financial advisory M&A 'case interview' at a big four?

For a corporate finance role like this, the preparation will be a bit different from standard consulting case prep. Since the focus is likely on sell-side M&A, it’s important to be comfortable analyzing financial statements and key metrics like EBITDA, revenue growth, and valuation multiples, as these are central to valuing a company. You should also practice pitching, focusing on how to articulate a company’s strengths—like market position, growth potential, and potential synergies for a buyer.

Given the specialization in life sciences, take some time to research industry trends, such as regulatory challenges or areas of innovation, so you can tailor your analysis. It’s also a good idea to review investment presentations and think about how you’d critique and improve them. Finally, practice presenting your ideas clearly and confidently, as strong communication is key in client-facing roles. Looking at some case studies in the life sciences sector might also help you understand what buyers typically focus on. Good luck!