Transfer Big 4 to Elite Boutique

Question

Hi everyone,

I’m currently working in Transaction Services at one of the Big 4 and I’m trying to move into M&A at an EB. I know it’s tough, but I’m wondering if anyone’s made the jump, either directly or via a stepping stone like a mid-market bank. How open are EBs to profiles like this, and what would you focus on to make the switch?

Thanks a lot!

Answer 1

Hey,
great to hear you're aiming for the EB M&A route – definitely a competitive move, but very doable. I've seen several people make that switch from TS, some directly, others via mid-market or boutique banks.

Your edge is that you’ve seen deals and now it’s about positioning yourself more on the origination and execution side.

A few tips:

Nail your story (Why M&A, Why EB, Why now)
Brush up your modeling (especially LBOs and integrated models)
Leverage your network – referrals go a long way
Be open to stepping stones if needed

Best of luck – feel free to DM if you want to chat more!

All the best!☺️

Answer 2

Hi there,

Making the jump from a Big 4 Transaction Services role to M&A at an elite boutique is definitely challenging but not impossible. Elite boutiques value strong technical skills and deal experience, so emphasizing your exposure to financial due diligence, valuation, and transaction advisory work can help position you well. Highlighting any direct involvement in deal processes and demonstrating your understanding of the M&A lifecycle will be key.

While some candidates transition directly, others find it helpful to use a mid-market bank as a stepping stone to gain more focused deal execution experience. Networking aggressively and tailoring your pitch to show how your background complements the boutique’s deal style can increase your chances. Focus on sharpening your modeling skills, understanding strategic advisory, and clearly articulating why you want to move into M&A to stand out in this competitive process.

Answer 3

Hey,

Moving from Big 4 Transaction Services to M&A at an elite boutique is challenging but definitely possible, especially if you position your experience effectively. EBs typically look for candidates with strong technical skills, deal exposure, and the ability to hit the ground running. Your background in financial due diligence already shows you understand deal mechanics, and if you've worked closely with investment banks or advised on complex transactions, you can use that to strengthen your case.

To make yourself more competitive, focus on highlighting relevant parts of your experience — deal volume, analytical work, client interaction, and any valuation work you’ve done. It also helps to build your modeling skills further, either through self-study or hands-on projects, to show you're ready for the technical demands of M&A. Some candidates do take a step through a mid-market bank or industry-specific boutique first to bridge the gap, but it’s not a requirement if you network well and can clearly articulate your motivation and readiness. Tailored outreach and persistence go a long way in making the jump.

Answer 4

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