My JC Path as a Corporate Finance Executive
After qualifying as a Chartered Accountant in 2021, Scott MacArthur joined Johnston Carmichael’s Corporate Finance team, based in our Edinburgh office. Here, Scott shares what stood out for him about Johnston Carmichael, his experiences of starting a new job during the COVID-19 pandemic, and his goals for the future.
Tell us about your background – what led you to a role in CF?
I studied Accountancy and Finance at Heriot Watt University, which gave me a good understanding of finance in general and areas such as Corporate Finance and M&A. I then got a graduate job at a Big Four firm, working in audit and studying towards my CA qualification with ICAS. Working in audit provided me with exposure to a range of clients, in particular financial services, and I gained a good understanding of how different companies operate. However, I knew audit wasn’t quite what I wanted to focus on and the nature of corporate finance was more suited to me. After qualifying as a CA, I applied to the role at JC and started in the CF team in September 2021.
What stood out about JC when you were looking for opportunities?
As soon as I had my first and second interviews with some of the directors, I found them all to be very supportive and encouraging. It was interesting to hear how their careers had progressed from similar backgrounds, so I knew it would be a great opportunity to develop my skills. The range of clients at JC also stood out for me, being small to medium sized companies, as well as the firm’s foothold within the Food & Drink, Financial Services and Energy, Infrastructure and Sustainability sectors which I’m particularly interested in.
It’s great to be able to work directly with senior members of the team who are knowledgeable and experienced but also very approachable and down to earth. Every team member takes the time to coach you through new areas and ensures you’re learning as much as you can.
What’s a typical day in the life for you?
Day to day I work on a variety of tasks such as valuations of clients, due diligence on buy-side or sell-side and helping with sales processes. As an executive, I’ll also try to get involved with business development activities such as researching prospective clients in certain sectors and identifying key contacts.
One of my main goals each week is also to not lose the CF team quiz - or more importantly to beat Graeme Morrison the usual champion! We do this online and it was something the team started during the pandemic that has stuck. It’s usually a mix of current topics and general knowledge, but we’ve had some niche ones like guess the airport each plane is flying into. The loser has to make the following week’s quiz which means it can get competitive at times!
Outside of work I usually try to keep active by going for a run or to the gym in the mornings, although really that’s all a ruse to satisfy my sweet tooth. In the evenings I’ll try to catch up with friends and get out and about if the weather’s good.
What makes JC a great place to work?
It was a bit strange starting a new job during the pandemic, but everyone I’ve met so far at JC has been very kind and welcoming. We’ve had a few social events now that restrictions have been lifted, so it’s been fantastic to meet people from different departments and continue to socialise with those in the CF team. It’s also great to be able to work directly with senior members of the team who are knowledgeable and experienced but also very approachable and down to earth. Every team member takes the time to coach you through new areas and ensures you’re learning as much as you can.
What goals have you set yourself for the next five years?
After achieving my CA, I don’t envisage doing any more exams too soon however I’ll keep the option open. I still have plenty to learn about the deals industry so will continue learning on the job and working with different clients. A main aim for the next few years is to continue widening my network, contributing to business development, and eventually bringing in some new clients. I also joined the specialist Food & Drink team at JC, so will learn more about this sector and get involved in activities where possible.
Finally, what’s been your best meal ever?!
Tough question but it’s got to be mussels and carbonara I had a few years ago sat by a canal in Venice, followed up with gelato like the good tourist I am.
Our Corporate Finance team is currently on the lookout for more sharp minds to join us – visit our Careers page for more info.
