At a Glance
- Tasks: Support M&A transactions and analyse financial statements in a dynamic team environment.
- Company: Join Houlihan Lokey, a top global investment bank with a strong reputation.
- Benefits: Gain substantial responsibilities, mentorship from senior professionals, and a collaborative culture.
- Other info: Training starts mid-July 2026; be ready to kickstart your career!
- Why this job: Make an impact in the Consumer industry while developing your financial expertise.
- Qualifications: Strong academic background, analytical skills, and internship experience in M&A preferred.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 90000 £ per year.
Business Unit: Corporate Finance
Industry: Consumer
Houlihan Lokey, Inc. (NYSE:HLI) is a leading global investment bank recognised for delivering independent strategic and financial advice to corporations, financial sponsors, and governments. With uniquely deep industry expertise, broad international reach, and a partnership approach rooted in trust, the firm provides innovative, integrated solutions across mergers and acquisitions, capital solutions, financial restructuring, and financial and valuation advisory. Our unmatched transaction volumes provide differentiated, data-driven perspectives that help our clients achieve their most critical goals.
Corporate Finance
The Houlihan Lokey Corporate Finance business has extensive expertise in mergers, acquisitions, divestitures, activist shareholder and takeover defence, and other related advisory services for a broad range of clients. In addition, we have the proven ability to engineer and execute financing solutions that are essential for growth and success and offer access to financing in the public and alternative capital markets through the issuance of debt, equity, or hybrid securities. In EMEA, we work with a wide spectrum of companies, from middle-market privately owned enterprises to large multinational organisations. With a growing platform of Corporate Finance professionals and offices across the region, in addition to our global reach and in-depth knowledge across a broad range of industries, we have the breadth and targeted expertise to provide exceptional client service.
Consumer
Houlihan Lokey's Consumer Group is the No. 1 Consumer M&A team globally for transactions under $1 billion, guiding companies on their M&A, restructuring and financial advisory matters, and assists in raising debt and equity capital. The group has built a reputation as a trusted advisor to companies in the Consumer industry, combining extensive market capabilities with in-depth industry knowledge to help maximise shareholder value for our clients.
Scope
As a Graduate Financial Analyst, you will work on corporate finance engagements for companies within our Consumer M&A advisory team. The group's engagements principally include sell-side and buy-side M&A transactions. As a dedicated member of our transaction team, you will be responsible for supporting these assignments. You will work with a talented, dedicated staff of professionals who will give you broad exposure to the many different issues and concerns affecting companies and investors today. You will research and analyse financial statements, general economic conditions, industry-specific developments, acquisitions and divestitures, and investment attributes of publicly traded and private companies. You will also gain in-depth knowledge of capital raisings and financing structures. Houlihan Lokey provides a collegial, entrepreneurial work environment. We reward our Financial Analysts with substantial responsibilities, interaction with senior-level professionals, and live engagements.
Requirements/Qualifications
- A strong academic track record from a highly regarded university - completing your final university assessments in Spring or Summer 2026
- Minimum 3 months internship experience in M&A or another similar role, with experience/knowledge in Consumer favourably regarded
- Strong quantitative and analytical skills with a focus on accuracy and attention to detail
- An understanding of valuation theory, methodologies and applications
- Strong quantitative, financial and analytical skills
- Proficient skill in Excel and PowerPoint
- Strong interpersonal skills
- Most importantly, we seek to attract dedicated, team-oriented candidates with a deep desire to win, a strong work ethic, and a willingness to work hard to achieve the highest standards of performance
Please note that our Graduate Financial Analyst Training commences in mid-July 2026, so you must be available to start full-time work by this date to be eligible for this position.
We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, colour, religion, sex, national origin, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
2026 Graduate Financial Analyst - Corporate Finance (Consumer) employer: Aplaro Ltd
Baringa is an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and innovative work culture, particularly in the vibrant Energy & Infrastructure sector. With a strong focus on employee development, you will have access to numerous growth opportunities while working alongside industry experts on impactful projects that shape the future of energy and utilities. Located in a dynamic environment, Baringa offers a unique chance to engage with diverse clients and contribute to meaningful change in the renewable infrastructure landscape.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land 2026 Graduate Financial Analyst - Corporate Finance (Consumer)
✨Tap into Campus Networks
If you're still in uni, don’t forget to engage with your campus's career services and attend finance-related events. Banks often do presentations and recruitment drives on campus, so put yourself out there and make use of these opportunities to show off your passion for the field.
✨Get Certified
Consider pursuing relevant certifications like the CFA or ACCA while you’re job hunting. They not only beef up your CV but also connect you with professional bodies which can lead to networking opportunities and even job openings in banking and financial services.
✨Connect on Professional Platforms
Join finance-focused groups on platforms like LinkedIn and engage in discussions. This can really help you stand out from the crowd, allowing potential employers to see your knowledge and interest in industry trends. Plus, you might stumble upon job postings shared exclusively within the group.
✨Apply Directly and Be Proactive
Don’t shy away from reaching out directly to firms like Aplaro Ltd. Use their websites and apply through them, but also consider following up with a polite email to express your enthusiasm. Being proactive can make a huge difference in getting noticed in the competitive financial services sector.
We think you need these skills to ace 2026 Graduate Financial Analyst - Corporate Finance (Consumer)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Numbers!:In the banking and financial services world, quantifiable achievements are key. Make sure your CV highlights your grades in relevant subjects, any financial certifications you hold, and specific projects where you've delivered measurable results. Employers love to see how your skills translate into real-world success.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Role:When applying for a full-time position, your cover letter should make a direct connection between your experience and the job description. Don't just state your enthusiasm for finance—dive into how your background in banking or financial analysis sets you apart. Let your passion shine through while being specific about what you can bring to Aplaro Ltd.
Include Relevant Financial Software Experience:If you've worked with financial modelling tools or software like Excel, SAP, or specific analytical tools during your studies or internships, bring that up! Highlighting your proficiency can really make your application pop and show you're ready to hit the ground running in a full-time role.
Research and Reflect:Before hitting that 'apply' button on Aplaro Ltd's website, do a little digging. Look up their recent projects, values, and culture. Reflecting their ethos in your application can make a huge difference and show you’re genuinely interested in being part of the team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Aplaro Ltd
✨Brush Up on Financial Analysis Skills
Make sure you're well-versed in financial concepts and analytical techniques relevant to banking and financial services. Get comfortable with tools like Excel for modelling or financial forecasting, as technical questions in this area are common during interviews with Aplaro Ltd.
✨Prepare for Case Studies
Expect to tackle case studies that demonstrate your problem-solving skills in real-world banking scenarios. Familiarise yourself with the types of problems you might face—think risk assessments or investment evaluations—and be ready to articulate your thought process clearly.
✨Show Your Passion for Finance
Since this is a full-time position, employers at Aplaro Ltd will be keen to see your genuine interest in finance. Be prepared to discuss recent industry trends or news articles that excite you, showcasing your enthusiasm and engagement with the field.
✨Network with Industry Professionals
Before your interview, reach out to current or former Aplaro Ltd employees on platforms like LinkedIn. They'll offer unique insights into the company's culture and the interview process, which can give us a delightful edge in showcasing a good fit for the team.
