We spoke to Greg about what initially interested him in Clearwater, and how the graduate scheme has set him up for a successful career.
Tell us a bit about yourself
I joined Clearwater International in 2017 in the London office and before that I studied Economics and Finance at the University of Exeter. Outside of work I like to stay active, catch live music and enjoy London’s food scene.
What originally attracted you to Clearwater?
I was attracted to Clearwater due to the unique proposition of the graduate scheme, at the time it was one of a few Mid Market M&A firms offering graduate positions. From my research and having spoken to a few different people, Clearwater had a solid reputation as a high quality advisor and would offer me great deal exposure / activity.
How did the graduate scheme set you up for a successful career with Clearwater?
The graduate scheme set me up well within Clearwater, the number of deals that the company enables you to work on is invaluable experience and provides a platform for progression.
Following two years in the graduate scheme I was made an Associate in October 2019, following that I was then promoted to Senior Associate in March 2021 and in April 2022 I was promoted to Associate Director. Across this time I have worked on a dozen successful mandates ranging from £10m - £240m EV, as I have progressed the level of involvement and responsibility with in the deal has increased.
What do you enjoy most about working at Clearwater?
People. This is both from a client and colleague perspective. High levels of interaction with clients from an early stage in my career has been great, our clients are interesting successful people that for me make the job. Colleagues at Clearwater are also great, the job can be intense and hard at times so for me it is important to like who you are doing it with.
What advice would you give to applicants looking to start their career at Clearwater?
The environment of Clearwater and Mid Market M&A does mean that candidates need to be motivated self starters. The technical skills of the job can be taught, doing your research and showing commercial understanding is an important foundation of the job.
What do Clearwater’s values / culture mean to you?
The Culture of Clearwater is a great, it keeps you wanting to work hard for the people around you whilst still having fun. I think our values of personable, adaptable, and committed really do reflect the nature and attitude of the people that work at Clearwater.