A great platform for deal-making and consulting
Pros
I run the investment bank at Exemplar, but I am going to review opportunities for producers across the firm: 1. This is an integrated knowledge services firm: law, accounting, consulting, capital, estate planning, compliance. Each practice stands on its own pod, but the possibility and reality is that the firm can offer one-stop shopping. 2. It's very stimulating to work with smart and seasoned professionals from across different disciplines. 3. The pay structure, based on "value attribution," allows successful producers to make a great deal of money. 4. The policy never to bill by the hour, but rather to guarantee a price based on a scope of work, is very popular with clients. 5. The firm is biased toward the "quad bottom line" -- with profit being one goal, but also social, environmental and spiritual benefits. Exemplar Companies is organized as a Public Benefit Corporation (PBC), Shareholders understand and embrace that management can balance our profitability against social and environmental goals. 6. Each producer has a great deal of personal autonomy. 7. The firm spends lots of money to support professionals -- including administrative, marketing, compliance, operations, human resources, and sales tools. 8. There are substantial opportunities and rewards for cross-selling.
Cons
Working at Exemplar is not for everyone. It takes some verve, self-confidence, and relationship-building skills. The payouts for producers are high, compared to large brokerage companies such as Goldman Sachs or Morgan Stanley, and the support structure is strong, but some don't make it or decide to pursue other things, as with all professional services firms.