Here at Vesta, we’re always looking to support the next generation of talent. As part of this, we’ve recently welcomed Rik Knooren to the team as a Junior Analyst Intern, where he has been getting stuck in with real-world M&A experiences as we progress acquisitions in both Europe and Latin America.
In this article, we hear from Rik as he shares an insight into his role as an intern.
Can you tell us a bit about yourself and your background?
My name is Rik Knooren and I am 22 years old. I just finished my second master’s in International Management after completing my first master’s in Finance last year. I have lived in the Netherlands, France, the United States, Spain and China during my youth and studies so I love exploring new countries. My main hobby is sports: I like working out, running, swimming, playing football and skiing.
What made you choose Vesta for your internship?
I like the investment philosophy of Constellation Software, and therefore Vesta Software Group too. This internship offered me a financial overview of the M&A practice and operational insights on improving an acquired company’s efficiency. With the growth that Vesta is experiencing, I believe there is a lot to learn from this organisation.
What does a typical day look like for you as a Junior Analyst Intern?
My day includes several meetings where I shadow the management of Vesta and get to see what the thought process is behind their decisions. Next to that, I help out the analysts from the UK/ Europe division, as well as the LATAM division. This can be either research, making slides or working on the financial model.
What have you enjoyed about your internship so far?
The team at Vesta is very friendly and they try to involve me as much as possible from the beginning. There are multiple interesting projects that I have been exposed to and which I can contribute to.
Is there anything you wish you’d known before you started?
Not really, the team is ready to assist when something is unclear. They help me learn by doing tasks so I get the chance to figure it out myself as well.
What advice would you give to someone looking to make the most of a similar internship opportunity?
Be proactive with your team members, try to figure something out yourself before asking but don’t hesitate to ask for clarification when you don’t understand something.
