EY Senior Transaction Advisory Services Interview Questions & Experience Guide

Interview questions for EY Senior Transaction Advisory Services

Hi everyone, this topic is for sharing Preparation guidelines and interview experience for EY Senior Transaction Advisory Services

The Senior Transaction Advisory Services at EY involves a multi-stage assessment and interview process, designed to evaluate both technical skills and business proficiency. Below is a summary of the process and key points from the interviews you provided:

Interview Process Summary

  1. Application & Invite
    • Applied online (response in ~2.5 months) or via campus portal (response in a few days).
  2. Round 1: HR/Behavioral Interview
    • Walkthrough of resume and experiences; motivation for TAS; teamwork and challenge-based questions.
    • Interviewer may explain EY TAS practice structure and scope of work.
  3. Round 2: Team/Technical Interviews
    • Team conversations with multiple interviewers across levels; largely behavioral with light technical checks (fit, collaboration, handling challenges).
    • Dedicated technical discussion covering financial modeling, due diligence approach, and deal metrics (e.g., EBITDA adjustments).
  4. Round 3: Case Study Interview
    • Analyze a hypothetical M&A scenario, identify key risks, and discuss valuation approach (e.g., DCF, comps).

Interview Preparation Tips

  • Brush up on financial modeling fundamentals and M&A process (due diligence steps, EBITDA and common adjustments).
  • Practice case studies: structure your analysis (financial, operational, strategic risks), and articulate valuation methods clearly.
  • Use the STAR method for behavioral questions to keep answers concise and outcome-oriented.
  • Research EY’s TAS practice and be ready with thoughtful questions about team dynamics, scope of work, and expectations.
  • Tailor examples to demonstrate collaboration and problem-solving across seniority levels.

Technical/Domain (Transaction Advisory, M&A)

  • Walk me through a financial model you’ve built.
  • How do you approach due diligence in M&A transactions?
  • Explain the concept of EBITDA adjustments.
  • What is your experience with financial modeling and analysis relevant to TAS?

Case Study/Analytical

  • Analyze a hypothetical M&A scenario and identify key risks.
  • How would you value a target company in this situation?

HR/Personality/Behavioral

  • Tell me about yourself.
  • Walk me through your resume.
  • Why are you interested in Transaction Advisory Services?
  • Describe a time you worked in a team and faced a challenge.
  • Describe a time you faced a significant professional challenge. How did you handle it?
  • How do you collaborate effectively with colleagues at different levels of seniority?

Firm/Role Understanding and Fit

  • What do you understand about our TAS practice and the scope of work?

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Company Name: EY

Position: Senior Transaction Advisory Services

Application Process: Applied online in mid-June 2017 and received an invitation to interview approximately 2.5 months later.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Behavioral Interview:

  • Questions Asked: Walked through my resume and discussed my experiences. The interviewer also explained the overall structure of the practice and the scope of work.

  • Your Approach: I focused on highlighting relevant experiences and how they aligned with the role. I also asked questions to understand the team dynamics and expectations.

  • Outcome: The interview was pleasant, and I felt it was a good conversation.

  • Round 2 - Team Interviews:

  • Questions Asked: Spoke with 4 additional individuals from various levels within the practice. The discussions were mostly behavioral, with some questions about my technical skills and how I handle challenges.

  • Your Approach: I tailored my responses to each interviewer’s role, emphasizing collaboration and problem-solving. I also made sure to engage with them about their experiences in the practice.

  • Outcome: The interviews were conversational, and I received positive feedback about my fit within the team.

Conclusion:
Overall, the interview process was very pleasant and informative. The behavioral focus allowed me to showcase my experiences and fit for the role. I would advise future candidates to thoroughly prepare for behavioral questions and to research the practice to ask insightful questions during the interview.

Company Name: EY

Position: Senior Transaction Advisory Services

Location: [Location not specified]

Application Process: [Application process details not provided]

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Interview with 4 Managers, Senior Managers, and Director:
    • Questions Asked:
      • Basic questions on DCF, Multiples, and OPM.
      • What is NOPAT and how would you find LTM figures?
      • How to run a comp sheet?
      • Behavioral questions: Why EY? Long-term plans (5-10 years)?
    • Your Approach:
      • Prepared thoroughly for technical concepts like DCF, NOPAT, and LTM figures.
      • Practiced behavioral questions to articulate my motivation for joining EY and long-term career goals.
    • Outcome: Pleasant experience with the interview process.

Preparation Tips:

  • Focus on behavioral questions, especially “Why EY?” and long-term career plans.
  • Brush up on technical concepts like DCF, Multiples, NOPAT, and LTM figures.
  • Practice running a comp sheet to ensure familiarity with the process.

Conclusion:
The interview process was smooth and engaging. The interviewers were professional and made the experience pleasant. I would advise future candidates to focus on both technical and behavioral aspects, ensuring they can confidently discuss their career aspirations and technical knowledge.

Company Name: EY

Position: Senior Transaction Advisory Services (Summer MBA Associate)

Location: EY HQ

Application Process: Applied through the MBA summer internship recruitment process.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Case and Behavioral Interviews:

    • Questions Asked:
      • Behavioral questions (specifics not provided).
      • 1 M&A case study.
      • 1 general accounting case study.
    • Your Approach: Prepared for behavioral questions using the STAR method. For the case studies, focused on structuring the problem, analyzing key drivers, and providing clear recommendations.
    • Outcome: Advanced to the final round.
  • Round 2 - Full-Day Immersive Experience (Final Round):

    • Questions Asked:
      • Behavioral questions (interviewer asked me to guess the questions he would ask, which was unexpected).
      • 1 group case study (challenging due to a dominant group member).
    • Your Approach: Stayed composed during the behavioral portion despite the odd dynamic. For the group case, tried to ensure everyone had a chance to contribute while keeping the discussion on track.
    • Outcome: Successfully completed the round and secured the summer position.

Preparation Tips:

  • Practice the STAR method for behavioral questions.
  • Brush up on M&A and general accounting concepts for case studies.
  • Prepare for group dynamics by practicing active listening and collaboration.

Conclusion:
The interview process was straightforward, though the group case and the behavioral interviewer’s approach were unexpected challenges. Staying calm and adaptable helped me navigate these situations. For future candidates, I’d recommend practicing both individual and group case studies to handle diverse scenarios confidently.

Company Name: EY

Position: Senior Transaction Advisory Services

Location: [Not specified]

Application Process: The recruitment process was a bit lengthy, involving three different stages of interviews, each with a more senior member of the team than the previous one. The interviewers were friendly, and the interviews were generally very conversational.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Initial Interview:

  • Questions Asked: General questions about my background, experience, and interest in the role.

  • Your Approach: I focused on aligning my past experiences with the requirements of the role and demonstrated my enthusiasm for the position.

  • Outcome: Passed to the next round.

  • Round 2 - Technical Interview:

  • Questions Asked: More in-depth questions about my technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and how I handle complex transactions.

  • Your Approach: I provided specific examples from my previous roles to showcase my expertise and problem-solving approach.

  • Outcome: Passed to the final round.

  • Round 3 - Senior Leadership Interview:

  • Questions Asked: High-level questions about my strategic thinking, leadership style, and how I would contribute to the team.

  • Your Approach: I emphasized my ability to lead projects, collaborate with teams, and drive results.

  • Outcome: Successfully cleared the round and received an offer.

Preparation Tips:

  • Research the company and the specific role thoroughly.
  • Prepare to discuss your past experiences in detail, especially those relevant to transaction advisory services.
  • Practice answering both technical and behavioral questions to ensure clarity and confidence.

Conclusion:
The overall experience was positive, with each round progressively challenging but fair. The conversational tone of the interviews made it easier to express myself. If I could do anything differently, I would prepare even more case studies to demonstrate my problem-solving skills. My advice to future candidates is to stay calm, be yourself, and thoroughly prepare for both technical and behavioral aspects of the interview.

Company Name: EY

Position: Senior Transaction Advisory Services

Application Process: The application process involved a combination of a written test and interviews. The process was thorough, testing both analytical skills and business acumen.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Written Test and HR Interview:

    • Questions Asked: The written test included case study questions to assess analytical skills and business sense. The HR interview followed, focusing on general questions about my previous career and experiences.
    • Your Approach: For the written test, I carefully analyzed the case study and provided structured answers. During the HR interview, I highlighted my relevant experiences and how they align with the role.
    • Outcome: I passed this round and moved on to the next stage.
  • Round 2 - Technical and Analytical Review:

    • Questions Asked: The interviewers (a Director and a Manager) reviewed my written test answers in detail, asking for explanations and reasoning behind my responses. They also tested my analytical skills and business relevance further.
    • Your Approach: I confidently defended my answers, providing logical reasoning and real-world examples to support my points. I also engaged in a discussion about the broader business implications of the case study.
    • Outcome: The interviewers seemed satisfied with my responses, and I felt the discussion was productive.

Preparation Tips:

  • Brush up on case study analysis techniques, as the written test heavily relies on this.
  • Be prepared to discuss your previous work experiences in detail, especially how they relate to transaction advisory services.
  • Practice explaining your thought process clearly, as the interviewers will probe your reasoning.

Conclusion:
Overall, the interview process was rigorous but fair. The combination of a written test and in-depth discussions ensured a comprehensive evaluation of my skills. I would advise future candidates to focus on both technical and analytical preparation, as well as being ready to articulate their thought process clearly.

Company Name: EY

Position: Senior Transaction Advisory Services

Application Process: Applied through the company’s career portal.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Excel Test:

    • Questions Asked: Covered a wide range of Excel functionalities, including advanced formulas, pivot tables, data visualization, and macros.
    • Your Approach: Practiced extensively beforehand using online resources and mock tests to ensure familiarity with all aspects of Excel.
    • Outcome: Passed the round successfully.
  • Round 2 - HR Interview:

    • Questions Asked: Basic HR questions about my background, motivation for applying, and understanding of the role.
    • Your Approach: Prepared by reviewing common HR questions and aligning my answers with the company’s values and the role’s requirements.
    • Outcome: Cleared the round with positive feedback.
  • Round 3 - Technical Round:

    • Questions Asked: Focused on my articleship experience, including specific projects, challenges faced, and technical skills applied.
    • Your Approach: Revisited my articleship projects and prepared detailed explanations for each, highlighting my contributions and learnings.
    • Outcome: Advanced to the next round.
  • Round 4 - Partner Round:

    • Questions Asked: Discussed my long-term career goals, fit for the role, and how I handle high-pressure situations.
    • Your Approach: Emphasized my passion for the field and provided examples of my problem-solving abilities.
    • Outcome: Received an offer for the position.

Preparation Tips:

  • Excel mastery is crucial—practice advanced functions and scenarios.
  • Review your past work experiences thoroughly, especially technical aspects.
  • Prepare for behavioral questions by aligning your answers with the company’s culture.

Conclusion:
Overall, the interview process was rigorous but well-structured. The Excel test was particularly challenging, so I’d recommend dedicating ample time to practice. Being thorough with my articleship experiences helped me stand out in the technical round. For future candidates, focus on both technical and soft skills to navigate all rounds effectively.

Company Name: EY

Position: Senior Transaction Advisory Services

Application Process: Applied through the company’s career portal after seeing the job posting.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Case Study Round:

    • Questions Asked: Several case studies related to transaction advisory services were provided. The cases involved analyzing financial data, identifying risks, and proposing solutions.
    • Your Approach: Took a structured approach to break down each case, focused on key financial metrics, and presented clear recommendations. Tried to think critically and creatively about potential risks and opportunities.
    • Outcome: Passed this round and moved to the next stage.
  • Round 2 - Personal Interview:

    • Questions Asked: Straightforward questions about my experience, why I wanted to join EY, and how I handle challenges in a fast-paced environment. Also, some behavioral questions about teamwork and problem-solving.
    • Your Approach: Answered honestly and confidently, tying my responses to real-life examples from my previous roles. Emphasized my passion for transaction advisory and my ability to adapt.
    • Outcome: Successfully cleared this round and received positive feedback.

Preparation Tips:

  • Practice case studies beforehand, especially those related to financial analysis and transaction advisory.
  • Brush up on behavioral questions and have a few strong examples ready.
  • Stay calm and enjoy the process—the cases were actually fun to work on!

Conclusion:
Overall, it was a great experience. The interviewers were professional and made the process engaging. The cases were challenging but interesting, and the personal interview felt more like a conversation. If I could do anything differently, I’d probably practice more case studies to refine my presentation skills. For future candidates, my advice is to be confident, stay curious, and enjoy the challenge!

Company Name: EY

Position: Senior Transaction Advisory Services

Application Process: The process started with an email contact, followed by a phone interview. After clearing the initial rounds, I was invited for an in-person interview with two managers and two senior managers. The process was smooth, and my skill set aligned well with their requirements, making it a good fit for both sides.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Phone Interview:

    • Questions Asked: General questions about my background, experience, and interest in the role.
    • Your Approach: I kept my answers concise and focused on how my skills matched the job requirements.
    • Outcome: Cleared the round and was invited for the in-person interview.
  • Round 2 - In-Person Interview (Panel with Managers and Senior Managers):

    • Questions Asked: More detailed questions about my experience, problem-solving abilities, and how I handle complex transactions. Behavioral questions were also included.
    • Your Approach: I provided specific examples from my past work to demonstrate my expertise and problem-solving skills. For behavioral questions, I used the STAR method to structure my answers.
    • Outcome: The interview went well, and I received positive feedback about my fit for the role.

Conclusion:

The entire interview process with EY was straightforward and well-organized. My preparation and alignment with the role’s requirements played a key role in my success. For future candidates, I’d recommend thoroughly researching the role and being ready to discuss your experience in detail, especially for senior positions like this one.

Company Name: EY

Position: Senior Transaction Advisory Services

Application Process: The process began with an Excel test, followed by an interview for selected candidates.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Excel Test:

    • Questions Asked:
      • Basic Excel functions and formulas like VLOOKUP.
      • Calculating sales, percentages, and sums.
    • Your Approach: I brushed up on essential Excel formulas beforehand and practiced similar problems to ensure accuracy and speed.
    • Outcome: Passed the test and proceeded to the interview round.
  • Round 2 - Interview:

    • Questions Asked:
      • Questions related to transaction advisory services, such as due diligence processes and financial analysis.
      • Behavioral questions about teamwork and problem-solving.
    • Your Approach: I prepared by reviewing key concepts in transaction advisory and practiced structuring my answers clearly. For behavioral questions, I used the STAR method.
    • Outcome: The interview went well, and I received positive feedback on my technical and communication skills.

Preparation Tips:

  • Focus on mastering Excel formulas, especially VLOOKUP and financial calculations.
  • Review transaction advisory concepts and be ready to discuss real-world applications.
  • Practice behavioral questions using the STAR method to articulate your experiences effectively.

Conclusion:
The interview process was well-structured, and the Excel test was a good initial filter. Preparing thoroughly for both technical and behavioral aspects helped me perform confidently. For future candidates, I’d recommend dedicating time to Excel practice and understanding the role’s core responsibilities.

Company Name: EY

Position: Senior Transaction Advisory Services

Application Process: Applied through an online application process.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Phone Interview:

    • Questions Asked: Went through my background and experiences. Some technical questions related to Transactions.
    • Your Approach: I focused on highlighting my relevant experiences and tried to answer the technical questions as clearly as possible.
    • Outcome: Successfully moved to the next round.
  • Round 2 - Case Study Interview:

    • Questions Asked: Presented with a case study, followed by an hour and a half of questions based on my answers to the case study.
    • Your Approach: I took my time to analyze the case thoroughly and structured my answers logically. I also prepared for follow-up questions.
    • Outcome: Advanced to the final round.
  • Round 3 - Partner Interview:

    • Questions Asked: Focused on cultural fit and whether I would be a good addition to the team.
    • Your Approach: I emphasized my teamwork skills and how my background aligns with the team’s goals.
    • Outcome: Received positive feedback and an offer.

Preparation Tips:

  • Brush up on technical aspects of Transactions, especially those relevant to advisory services.
  • Practice case studies to improve analytical and presentation skills.
  • Be prepared to discuss your experiences in detail and how they relate to the role.

Conclusion:
Overall, the interview process was thorough but fair. The case study round was the most challenging, but preparing in advance helped. My advice is to be confident, articulate your thoughts clearly, and ensure you understand the company’s culture and expectations.

Company Name: EY

Position: Senior Transaction Advisory Services

Application Process: Applied through the college recruitment website.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Behavioral & Case Interview:
    • Questions Asked:
      • Behavioral questions (first 10-15 minutes).
      • A case question (last 15 minutes).
    • Your Approach:
      • For the behavioral part, I focused on providing structured answers using the STAR method.
      • For the case question, I took a moment to understand the problem, broke it down into smaller parts, and walked the interviewer through my thought process.
    • Outcome: The interview lasted 30 minutes, and I felt confident about my performance.

Preparation Tips:

  • Practice behavioral questions using the STAR method.
  • Be prepared for case questions by reviewing common frameworks and practicing under time constraints.

Conclusion:
Overall, the interview was straightforward, but the case question required quick thinking. I would advise future candidates to practice both behavioral and case questions thoroughly to feel more comfortable during the interview.

Company Name: EY

Position: Senior Transaction Advisory Services

Application Process: The application process was extensive, spanning over 4 months. It involved multiple one-on-one interviews with various team members. I visited the office twice and also had one phone interview during this period.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Initial Screening (Phone Interview):

  • Questions Asked: General questions about my background, experience, and interest in the role.

  • Your Approach: I kept my answers concise and focused on aligning my experience with the requirements of the role.

  • Outcome: Successfully moved to the next round.

  • Round 2 - In-Person Interview (Office Visit 1):

  • Questions Asked: More detailed questions about my technical skills, past projects, and how I handle challenges in advisory services.

  • Your Approach: I provided specific examples from my previous roles to demonstrate my expertise and problem-solving abilities.

  • Outcome: Advanced to the next stage.

  • Round 3 - In-Person Interview (Office Visit 2):

  • Questions Asked: Case study-based questions to assess my analytical and advisory skills. Also, behavioral questions to gauge cultural fit.

  • Your Approach: I structured my responses logically for the case study and emphasized teamwork and adaptability in the behavioral questions.

  • Outcome: Received positive feedback and moved forward.

  • Round 4 - Final Discussion (One-on-One with Senior Leadership):

  • Questions Asked: High-level strategic questions about the industry and my vision for contributing to the team.

  • Your Approach: I tied my answers to broader industry trends and how my skills could add value to EY’s goals.

  • Outcome: Offered the position.

Preparation Tips:

  • Brush up on technical aspects of transaction advisory services, especially case studies.
  • Prepare to discuss past projects in detail, highlighting your role and outcomes.
  • Research EY’s recent work in the field to align your answers with their priorities.

Conclusion:
The process was rigorous but well-structured. I felt each round built on the previous one, and the feedback was constructive. My advice would be to stay patient and prepare thoroughly for each stage, especially the case study and leadership discussions.

Company Name: EY

Position: Senior Transaction Advisory Services

Application Process: Applied through an online application process.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Senior Manager Interview:
    • Questions Asked:
      • Walked through my resume in detail.
      • Conducted a back-of-the-envelope case study.
    • Your Approach:
      • For the resume walkthrough, I highlighted my relevant experience and how it aligns with the role.
      • For the case study, I focused on structuring my thoughts clearly and making reasonable assumptions.
    • Outcome: Successfully advanced to the next round.

Preparation Tips:

  • Brush up on basic financial concepts and case study frameworks.
  • Be ready to discuss your resume in depth and connect it to the role.

Conclusion:
The interview was conversational and focused on both fit and analytical skills. Practicing case studies and resume walkthroughs beforehand helped me feel more confident.

Company Name: EY

Position: Senior Transaction Advisory Services

Application Process: The application process involved an online aptitude test followed by a face-to-face interview.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Online Aptitude Test:

    • Questions Asked: The test was fairly easy, focusing more on accuracy than quantitative abilities.
    • Your Approach: I ensured I read each question carefully to avoid mistakes, as accuracy was key.
    • Outcome: Passed the round.
  • Round 2 - Face-to-Face Interview:

    • Questions Asked: The interview included basic questions and an easy back-of-the-envelope case.
    • Your Approach: I focused on answering the basic questions clearly and logically, and for the case, I broke it down into simple steps to solve it efficiently.
    • Outcome: Successfully cleared the round.

Preparation Tips:

  • Pay attention to basic questions, as they seem to be taken very seriously by the interviewers.
  • Practice accuracy for aptitude tests, as it can make a big difference.

Conclusion:
The overall experience was smooth, and the interviewers were professional. I realized that clarity and simplicity in answers are highly valued. For future candidates, I’d advise focusing on the basics and ensuring accuracy in every step.

Company Name: EY

Position: Senior Transaction Advisory Services

Application Process: I was referred to the open position by a team member from the service line I was targeting. After the referral, I went through a screening process with the recruiter, followed by four rounds of interviews. The process was quite lengthy, but I was told this varies depending on the service line.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Recruiter Screening:

  • Questions Asked: Basic questions about my background, experience, and interest in the role.

  • Your Approach: I kept my answers concise and aligned them with the job description.

  • Outcome: Passed to the next round.

  • Round 2 - Team Member Interview:

  • Questions Asked: Mostly fit-based questions about my experience, teamwork, and how I handle challenges. A few technical questions related to transaction advisory services.

  • Your Approach: I focused on showcasing my relevant experience and how it aligns with the role. For technical questions, I provided clear, structured answers.

  • Outcome: Advanced to the next round.

  • Round 3 - Senior Team Member Interview:

  • Questions Asked: Deeper fit questions, situational scenarios, and more technical questions about transactions and advisory work.

  • Your Approach: I used the STAR method for situational questions and ensured my technical answers were detailed yet concise.

  • Outcome: Moved forward to the final round.

  • Round 4 - Partner Interview:

  • Questions Asked: High-level fit questions, my long-term career goals, and how I see myself contributing to the team.

  • Your Approach: I emphasized my passion for the field and how my skills align with the team’s goals.

  • Outcome: Received an offer!

Preparation Tips:

  • Focus on fit-based questions as they were a significant part of the interviews.
  • Brush up on technical aspects of transaction advisory services, but don’t stress too much as the interviews were more conversational.
  • Practice the STAR method for situational questions.

Conclusion:
Overall, the process was thorough but manageable. The interviews were more about fit and conversation than intense technical grilling. My advice is to be yourself, stay confident, and ensure your answers reflect your experience and enthusiasm for the role.

Company Name: EY

Position: Senior Transaction Advisory Services

Location: [Location not specified]

Application Process: [Application process details not provided]

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Behavioral Interview with Managers:

  • Questions Asked: Behavioral-based questions (specific questions not provided).

  • Your Approach: Focused on aligning responses with the role’s requirements and demonstrating relevant skills.

  • Outcome: Positive interaction; the managers were pleasant and engaged.

  • Round 2 - In-Office Interview:

  • Questions Asked: [Specific questions not provided].

  • Your Approach: Maintained professionalism and enthusiasm, showcasing fit for the company culture.

  • Outcome: The staff was welcoming, and the company environment seemed great.

Conclusion:

The overall experience was positive, with a friendly and professional atmosphere. The behavioral interview was a good opportunity to connect with the managers, and the in-office round reinforced the company’s appealing culture. For future candidates, I’d recommend preparing for behavioral questions and researching the company’s values to align responses effectively.

Company Name: EY

Position: Senior Transaction Advisory Services

Application Process: The application process began with a phone interview, followed by a final round conducted in the office.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Phone Interview:

    • Questions Asked: The interview was conducted by the manager of the recruiting team. The discussion revolved around my experience, skills, and how they align with the role. There were also situational questions to assess problem-solving abilities.
    • Your Approach: I focused on highlighting my relevant experience and how it could add value to the team. For situational questions, I used the STAR method to structure my answers clearly.
    • Outcome: I successfully moved to the final round.
  • Round 2 - Office Interview:

    • Questions Asked: This round involved multiple interviews with various team members. The questions ranged from technical aspects of the role to behavioral and situational scenarios. There was also a casual lunch with peers to gauge cultural fit.
    • Your Approach: I ensured I was well-prepared for both technical and behavioral questions. During the lunch, I engaged naturally with the team to demonstrate my interpersonal skills and enthusiasm for the role.
    • Outcome: The round concluded positively, and I received feedback that I was a strong cultural fit.

Preparation Tips:

  • Research the company and the specific team you’re interviewing with.
  • Practice answering behavioral questions using the STAR method.
  • Be ready to discuss your technical expertise in detail.
  • Relax and be yourself during informal interactions like the lunch meeting.

Conclusion:
The interview process was thorough but well-structured. I felt prepared, and the team was welcoming. My advice to future candidates is to focus on both technical and cultural fit, as EY values both equally.

Company Name: EY

Position: Senior Transaction Advisory Services

Location: [Not specified]

Application Process: Applied through an employer presentation at my school. However, the presentation didn’t accurately reflect the role’s focus, which led to some confusion during the interview process.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Initial Screening:

  • Questions Asked: General questions about my background, CPA qualifications, and interest in Transaction Services.

  • Your Approach: I highlighted my CPA experience and my understanding of traditional Transaction Services (due diligence and valuation).

  • Outcome: Advanced to the next round, but the role’s focus on IT integration and management consulting was clarified here.

  • Round 2 - Technical Interview:

  • Questions Asked: Focused on IT integration processes, data analysis, and how I would approach consulting projects in this space.

  • Your Approach: I tried to pivot my answers to align with IT integration, leveraging my analytical skills from my CPA background.

  • Outcome: The interviewers seemed interested but noted a gap between my expectations and the role’s actual focus.

Preparation Tips:

  • Research the specific role thoroughly beyond the employer presentation.
  • Be prepared to adapt your answers if the role differs from your initial understanding.
  • Brush up on IT integration and management consulting basics if applying for similar roles.

Conclusion:
The experience was a bit unexpected due to the mismatch between the presentation and the actual role. While I could have researched more about the specific team’s focus, the interviewers were professional and provided clarity. For future candidates, I’d advise digging deeper into the role’s specifics before applying.

Company Name: EY

Position: Senior Transaction Advisory Services

Location: [Location not specified]

Application Process: Submitted my application through my school’s placement portal and received an interview invitation within a few days.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - HR Interview:

    • Questions Asked:
      • Tell me about yourself.
      • Why are you interested in Transaction Advisory Services?
      • Describe a time you worked in a team and faced a challenge.
    • Your Approach: I kept my answers concise, focusing on my relevant experience and enthusiasm for the role. For the teamwork question, I used the STAR method to structure my response.
    • Outcome: Passed to the next round.
  • Round 2 - Technical Interview:

    • Questions Asked:
      • Walk me through a financial model you’ve built.
      • How do you approach due diligence in M&A transactions?
      • Explain the concept of EBITDA adjustments.
    • Your Approach: I prepared by reviewing financial modeling concepts and M&A processes beforehand. For the financial model question, I highlighted a project from my previous role and explained my methodology.
    • Outcome: Advanced to the final round.
  • Round 3 - Case Study Interview:

    • Questions Asked:
      • Analyze a hypothetical M&A scenario and identify key risks.
      • How would you value a target company in this situation?
    • Your Approach: I structured my analysis by breaking down the scenario into financial, operational, and strategic risks. For valuation, I discussed both DCF and comparable company analysis.
    • Outcome: Received an offer!

Preparation Tips:

  • Brush up on financial modeling and M&A concepts.
  • Practice case studies to improve analytical thinking.
  • Use the STAR method for behavioral questions.

Conclusion:
Overall, the interview process was thorough but fair. I felt well-prepared, but I could have practiced more case studies to feel even more confident. My advice for future candidates is to focus on both technical and behavioral aspects, as EY values a well-rounded skill set.