Help Needed: Deciding Between Manager of Corp Dev and Sr. Manager of FP&A Pre-IPO!
Hey everyone! I’m in a fortunate position with two amazing job offers, but I’m feeling a bit overwhelmed trying to decide between them. I’d really appreciate your insights!
A Bit About Me:
I’ve always had a passion for M&A, but I also place a high value on mentorship and long-term professional development. Both positions have their unique appeal—one aligns closely with my career aspirations, while the other offers broader opportunities and potential growth.
Here’s a quick comparison of the two offers, highlighting some pros and cons:
Job Offer 1:
Title: Manager of Corporate Development & Strategy
Location: Downtown metro area (~45 min bus commute)
Compensation: $135K base + 15% bonus target (up to 45% based on company performance)
Overview:
This position is with the M&A team at a publicly traded company. Although the deal flow is limited, the transactions are substantial (sometimes exceeding $1 billion). The team culture is collaborative and aligns well with my values. The downtown location is convenient, allowing me the opportunity to meet my girlfriend for lunch. This role represents a direct path to the M&A career I’ve always envisioned.
Pros:
– Direct involvement in M&A — a long-held career ambition
– Strong, collaborative team environment
– Convenient downtown location
– Engaging with large, impactful transactions at a public company
– Potential for growth within Corporate Development
Cons:
– Slightly lower compensation package
– Limited deal exposure due to lower volume
– Manager title (compared to Sr. Manager in the other offer)
Job Offer 2:
Title: Senior Manager of FP&A
Location: Suburbs (~60–90 min car commute)
Compensation: $140K base + 10% bonus + stock options/net carry
Overview:
This role offers a senior FP&A position at a large, private equity-backed firm poised for an IPO within the next 18–24 months. I would be reporting directly to the CFO, whom I greatly admire. The position involves significant exposure to the IPO process and could lead to opportunities in M&A or other ventures with the CFO. The stock options could yield considerable returns based on the success of the IPO and the company’s performance, though the exact potential is hard to gauge at this point.
Pros:
– High visibility with direct access to the CFO
– Exposure to the IPO process — a rare and valuable experience
– Strong mentorship and flexible career paths (M&A, CFO track, etc.)
– Sr. Manager title
– Stock options with significant potential upside
Cons:
– Long commute by car, conflicting with my lifestyle preferences
– Initial focus not on M&A
– Equity value is uncertain, reliant on IPO outcomes and company performance
I would truly appreciate any thoughts, especially from those who have experience in Corp Dev, FP&A, or who have faced similar choices between traditional public company paths and the exciting prospects of pre-IPO roles. Thanks so much in advance!
One response
Congratulations on having two exciting job offers! It sounds like you’re at a pivotal point in your career, and both roles offer unique opportunities. Here are some thoughts to consider as you weigh your options:
Job Offer 1: Manager of Corporate Development & Strategy
Pros:
– Direct M&A Experience: If M&A has always been your goal, this role aligns well with your long-term aspirations. Gaining experience in this field could pave the way for more senior roles in the future.
– Collaborative Culture: A strong team environment is crucial for professional growth and job satisfaction. Since you’ve identified a positive team culture, it could significantly enhance your work experience.
– Location & Commute: The downtown location and the potential for lunchtime meet-ups with your girlfriend could contribute positively to your work-life balance.
Cons:
– Low Deal Volume: The fewer deal reps could limit the breadth of experiences you get in M&A. This might be a concern if you’re looking to build a robust M&A skill set early in your career.
– Compensation: While the compensation is competitive, the difference could add up, especially if you’re considering lifestyle choices or future financial plans.
Job Offer 2: Senior Manager of FP&A
Pros:
– High Visibility: Working directly with the CFO provides a rare chance to learn from an executive leader and gain high-level insights into the company’s strategy and operations.
– IPO Exposure: Being part of the IPO process can be invaluable for your résumé and career trajectory, especially if you see yourself advancing in corporate finance or moving towards a CFO role.
– Career Flexibility: The broad exposure this role offers might allow you to pivot to different functions, including M&A in the future.
– Title & Compensation: The “Senior Manager” title and the potential for stock options are appealing aspects, especially with the possibility of significant financial outcome.
Cons:
– Commute: A 60-90 minute commute can take a toll on your work-life balance. This is a crucial factor to consider, especially if you value your time outside of work.
– Lack of Immediate M&A Focus: If M&A is your passion, this role may feel misaligned initially, which could lead to frustration if you’re eager to engage in that type of work.
Final Considerations:
In conclusion, if M&A is truly your passion and you value a supportive team environment, Job Offer 1 may be the better fit. However, if you’re looking for broader exposure, mentorship from a CFO, and are open to future opportunities in senior leadership, Job Offer 2 could offer more long-term potential. Ultimately, choose the option that aligns best with your career aspirations and personal lifestyle. Good luck!