Employee Q&A: Anuk Manchanda

We recently sat down for a chat with Anuk Manchanda, our talented M&A Director here at InterFinancial. With over 12 years of solid experience under his belt, Anuk shares what drives his passion for M&A, how he builds meaningful client relationships, and the key lessons he’s picked up along the way. With a background that spans industries as varied as tech, infrastructure, and finance, Anuk gives us a glimpse of what it’s like to walk in his shoes – and even reveals his ‘secret sauce’ for thriving in the dynamic M&A world.

What made you transition from engineering to finance, and why did you specifically choose M&A? 

I grew up in India. I always had an aptitude for math. In hindsight, I think pursuing an engineering degree was to a certain extent ‘herd mentality’. After an MBA, I aspired to build a career in finance. I started in a Project Finance (debt) role. An M&A opportunity came my way soon after I moved to Australia over a decade ago. I loved it then and still do!

You’ve worked across a wide variety of industries – do you have a favourite sector to work with, and why? 

Not really. What I find intellectually stimulating about a mid-market M&A role is that you get an opportunity to work with companies across different sectors. It keeps things interesting! Having worked in IT services post my engineering, and with all the fascinating tech developments in recent times, I find this space intriguing.

How do you build and maintain strong client relationships, especially in a competitive market? 

By being responsive and insightful to clients. It’s important to build trust and I want my client to feel that “We’ve got their back” – This is one of InterFinancial’s values.

As someone who’s deeply involved in mentoring junior team members, what’s the most important piece of advice you can offer them? 

Probably, that there is no magic piece of advice that will lead to success. One must be committed to the team’s cause, work smart and keep learning along one’s career journey.

Looking back at your career track-record, what is the biggest lesson you’ve learned that has shaped your approach to M&A? 

I’ll mention a couple. First, communication (the narrative) is key, whether it’s a pitch, a negotiation, a presentation or anything else. Second, anticipating issues is critical – problem solving is a given (and a good adviser needs to be great at this!), but you must always stay ahead of the game.

Are there any habits or strategies that you adopted that you think have made all the difference throughout your career? 

I observe and learn from my seniors, peers and clients and adopt (or at least try to) certain elements into my work and style. The above-mentioned points, i.e. communication and anticipating issues, are things I’ve picked up watching effective leaders that I’ve worked for in my career.

Lastly, we know M&A can be intense! After a week of serious discussions and deal-making, how do you unwind? 

Work in an M&A role can have a few peaks and troughs. I certainly don’t mind a bit of downtime after a busy period. I enjoy spending extra time with family and friends.

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