Finance
at Guiding Saints
Explore the dynamic world of finance. Discover the common areas of finance, career paths, and valuable resources to guide your professional journey.
Areas of Finance
Dive into the specialised disciplines on offer within the financal world, and see which suits you best.
Investment Banking
Investment Banking focuses on providing advisory services for mergers and acquisitions, underwriting new debt and equity securities, and assisting companies in raising capital.
Consulting
Consulting in finance involves offering expert advice to organizations on financial strategy, operations, risk management, and improving overall financial performance.
Asset & Wealth Management
Asset and Wealth Management involves managing investments and financial planning for individuals, families, and institutions, aiming to grow and preserve wealth over time.
Accounting
Accounting focuses on recording, classifying, and summarizing financial transactions to provide accurate financial statements and ensure compliance with regulations and standards.
Private Equity & Venture Capital
Private Equity and Venture Capital deal with investing in private companies, providing capital for startups and growth-oriented businesses, and seeking high returns through strategic management and eventual exits.
Commercial Banking
Commercial Banking involves providing financial services to businesses, including loans, credit, deposit accounts, and treasury services, to support their operational and growth needs.
Career Timeline
Discover the diverse career trajectories across key financial disciplines, each offering unique opportunities for growth and specialisation.
St Andrews Student
3-5 years
St Andrews students typically pursue degrees in Economics, Finance or Management, though other disciplines like Mathematics aren't uncommon. These studies build the critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills essential for a career in finance.
Spring Week
Second Year
During the summer between the first and second years, as well as Semester 1 of the second year, students often apply for spring week programs. These programs are brief, focused internships offered by leading firms across the sector, providing early exposure to the industry and helping students build a network.
Internship
Third Year
In the summer between the second and third years, and during Semester 1 of the third year, students typically apply for summer internships. These internships offer hands-on experience and a deep dive into the workings of a company and the industry. Successful internships often lead to full-time offers.
Analyst
2-3 years
As an Analyst, you'll create financial models, prepare client presentations, and assist in coordinating the logistics of deal execution. This role is crucial for building a solid foundation in financial analysis and transaction processes.
Associate
3-4 years
Associates oversee the work of Analysts, ensuring the accuracy and quality of financial models and presentations. Under the guidance of senior bankers, Associates take on more responsibility in managing client relationships and the day-to-day execution of deals.
Vice President
3-4 years
Vice Presidents, often known as deal quarterbacks, lead the execution of transactions. They ensure the cohesion of the team's efforts, manage daily client interactions, and serve as a vital link between junior and senior bankers.
Senior Vice President or Director
3-4 years
In this senior role, you'll prospect for new business and cultivate relationships with CEOs and other top executives. Directors and Senior VPs are key players in deal-making, demonstrating their ability to drive successful transactions and setting the stage for promotion to Managing Director.
Managing Director
3-4 years
As a Managing Director, your primary role is to grow the firm's client base, oversee major transactions, and generate revenue. You'll also serve as a trusted advisor to top-level executives, leveraging your deep expertise in corporate finance and strategy to guide critical business decisions.
Further Roles
After becoming a Managing Director, you may progress to leadership positions such as Regional or Global Head, COO, or even CEO. These roles involve overseeing the firm's broader operations, setting strategic direction, and leading the organization towards its long-term goals.