Plante Moran Corporate Finance Salary: A Comprehensive Overview
Plante Moran is a well-respected accounting, tax, consulting, and wealth management firm known for its strong Midwest presence and increasingly national reach. Their Corporate Finance practice offers a range of services, including mergers and acquisitions (M&A) advisory, transaction support, valuation, and restructuring. Understanding the salary expectations within this practice is crucial for prospective employees.
Entry-Level Positions: Analyst
The most common entry point into Plante Moran’s Corporate Finance group is as an Analyst. Salaries at this level are generally competitive with other mid-sized firms and regional players. Expect a base salary ranging from $65,000 to $85,000 per year. This range can fluctuate based on factors like location (offices in major metropolitan areas tend to pay slightly more), academic background (a Master’s degree may command a higher starting salary), and prior internship experience.
Beyond the base salary, Analysts typically receive benefits, including health insurance, retirement plan contributions (e.g., 401k match), paid time off, and potentially performance-based bonuses. Bonuses at the Analyst level are generally a percentage of the base salary and tied to individual and firm performance. Expect a bonus ranging from 5% to 15% of your base salary.
Mid-Level Positions: Associate/Senior Associate
After a few years of experience, typically 2-4 years, Analysts may be promoted to Associate or Senior Associate roles. These positions involve increased responsibility, client interaction, and project management duties. Salary ranges at this level increase significantly, often falling between $90,000 and $130,000 annually. Again, location and performance are significant determinants.
Bonus potential also increases with these promotions. Associates and Senior Associates can typically expect bonuses in the range of 10% to 25% of their base salary, depending on individual contribution and the overall success of the Corporate Finance practice.
Senior-Level Positions: Manager/Director
Progressing further, individuals can advance to Manager or Director roles. These positions require significant experience, strong leadership skills, and the ability to manage client relationships and generate new business. Salary ranges for Managers typically fall between $130,000 and $200,000+. Directors often command even higher compensation, potentially exceeding $250,000 depending on their responsibilities and book of business.
Bonus structures for Managers and Directors are more heavily weighted towards performance and revenue generation. Bonuses can range from 20% to upwards of 50% or more of the base salary for high-performing individuals.
Factors Influencing Salary
Several factors influence salary levels within Plante Moran’s Corporate Finance practice:
- Location: Offices in major metropolitan areas (e.g., Chicago, Detroit) generally pay more than smaller regional locations.
- Education: A Master’s degree (e.g., MBA, MSF) or relevant certifications (e.g., CFA, CPA) can increase earning potential.
- Experience: Prior experience in investment banking, private equity, or related fields is highly valued.
- Performance: Individual and team performance directly impact bonus potential and future salary increases.
- Negotiation Skills: Salary negotiation is a crucial skill. Researching industry benchmarks and presenting a strong case for your worth can significantly impact your starting salary.
It’s important to note that these figures are estimates based on industry data and anecdotal evidence. Actual salary offers may vary. Networking with current or former Plante Moran employees can provide valuable insights into compensation trends within the firm.