Noor started at PwC in September 2023 and is following the expert track of the Edge traineeship. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with a specialization in Finance, followed by a Master’s in Corporate Finance, both from the University of Amsterdam.
“I developed an interest in M&A during my studies, so that’s why I landed on the Edge traineeship at PwC.”
Why did you choose the Edge traineeship at PwC?
During my studies I kept noticing how theoretical it was, which of course isn’t surprising for a university. I knew I needed to learn a lot more to become an expert in the field of Finance. From that moment on, I really focused on finding a company in which I could grow and keep learning. I developed an interest in M&A during my studies, so that’s why I landed on the Edge traineeship at PwC. Here, you get the coaching and training that’s needed to excel (no pun intended) in this field, while also working on large deals for large companies, which is really fun. On top of that, I noticed that PwC focusses a lot on a good work-life balance, which is very important to me.
You are following the expert track: why did you choose this track within Edge?
During the business course cases, I noticed that Financial Due Diligence (FDD) was one of the competences that turned out to suit me very well. I like working with numbers, which is a large part of the work in FDD. However, there is also a healthy balance between the numerical work and writing up slides, which makes it fun. After talking to one of the managers, we agreed the expert track would suit me best. This way, I can deep-dive straight into FDD instead of rotating through different departments.
What does the program look like for you?
The expert program offers the same experience as the rotation track, but with a focus on my chosen competence. We’re fully part of the trainee group, getting the same onboarding, going to Madrid to meet international colleagues, and engaging in social activities with the group. The only difference is that we get to specialize faster than we would in the rotating track.
What are your tasks and responsibilities in the FDD department?
In FDD, we analyze the current position of a company and identify any irregularities. The report we prepare serves as a foundation for discussions regarding the potential sale of the company. By reading the report, stakeholders can assess various factors such as potential risks, liabilities, and the sustainability of earnings. My job as an Associate is to support the team where needed. This includes making graphs and tables, but also making slides for the final report.
The dynamic nature of deals and the diverse range of teams I collaborate with make my job both exciting and interesting. Due to the relatively short duration of projects, I gain insights into numerous different companies, which is truly interesting.
How was it to start at PwC?
Starting any new job brings about a lot of new impressions of course. Joining PwC was, however, relatively easy. All thanks to the well-structured onboarding process and the support of colleagues in different ways. First, the trainee group, who share the same experiences and with whom you can really relate. Second, my buddy, who I can turn to for any questions I may have and who often works on the same projects as me. Besides that, you get a Career coach and a Performance coach, who help you with your general PwC career: setting goals and achieving them.
What do you expect to learn in this traineeship?
I expect to learn a lot about the inner workings of FDD and Deals in general, of course. Besides that, I want to enhance my self-management and work skills, enabling me to transition into a more independent role as a Senior Associate within a few years. As said, there is more than enough opportunity for feedback within PwC. During and after your projects, but also on a broader level with your Career and Performance coaches. There is some technical training on a regular interval, but ultimately, you gain the best learnings from the work itself.
What does your team look like?
Within FDD I’m part of professional team 4, which is the healthcare and manufacturing team. This team consists of around forty people, who are placed in project teams of around 4-5 people. This project team differs from project to project. We have a lot of social activities and other meetings with team 4, so I get to know everyone fairly quickly. And during the projects I get to know a couple of them a bit better, as we work together in a project room and really see each other a lot during those weeks!
Do you also do activities together outside of working hours?
Absolutely! We have a lot of social activities with the broader FDD team and the professional teams. My trainee group is no different – we’re always up for a catch-up over drinks. We’ve had a blast during our trainee weekend in Friesland! And it’s not just about the big events, we also have weekly lunches with our trainee group. Outside of work, I still have plenty of time for my personal life, hitting the gym, and hanging out with friends and family.
You mentioned that the work-life balance at PwC is good. Can you explain why you experience it that way?
There is a lot of focus on wellbeing within PwC. Just this month, a new portal was launched for all wellbeing support. On top of that, we get a yearly allowance to spend on things that improve our wellbeing, like a massage or sports. But it’s not just the perks – it’s the people too. We work hard, but there’s always a way to make it work for your personal life too.
What would you like to say to future colleagues?
I think starting your career at PwC is a kickstart to your career. PwC has a lot of focus on growth. You get to work on large and interesting deals, while learning in a very hands-on way, rolling up your sleeves as soon as you start. Thanks to the wide range of feedback options, you can sharpen your skills, making you the best possible deals professional!
“I think starting your career at PwC is a kickstart to your career. PwC has a lot of focus on growth. You get to work on large and interesting deals, while learning in a very hands-on way, rolling up your sleeves as soon as you start."
