Corporate finance is an umbrella term used to refer to the teams responsible for managing the finances of a corporation.



Overview

Activities under corporate finance include effective financial management through budgeting, financing decisions, risk management, and working capital management, as well as strategic planning and analysis.

Comparison to Financial Services

Corporate finance and the financial services industry are related but distinct areas within the field of finance.

While corporate finance is primarily concerned with managing a company's finances internally to maximize shareholder value, the financial services industry provides a wide range of financial products and services to individuals and businesses.

In financial institutions, corporate finance functions typically fall under the finance function, and some aspects of corporate finance work overlap with private accounting.

Corporate finance roles often offer a better work-life balance compared to certain positions in the financial services industry, which may involve long hours and high-pressure environments.

Recruitment

Interview questions within corporate finance can differ depending on the role being applied for, but for the most popular group, FP&A, most questions are fit, with a few on the financial statements.

Big tech companies often have higher salaries for their corporate finance roles, making them amongst the most competitive to recruit for.

Many corporations offer Financial Leadership Development Programs (FLDPs) designed for new graduates. These programs allow participants to rotate through different areas of corporate finance, providing exposure to various financial functions within the company.

Examples

Just every company on the F500, or most companies in general have one.

Finance Management

FP&A provides financial analysis and insights, controllers ensure financial accuracy and compliance, treasury manages cash, liquidity, and financial risks, and tax works with all things related to taxes.

Financial Planning and Analysis (FP&A)