17 December 2025
In our latest ‘Meet the Team’ blog, we spoke with Executive Lauren Woodward.
As well as discussing her day-to-day role, Lauren shares insights into the fast-paced world of M&A, offers practical advice for trainees and highlights the importance of communication in delivering successful transactions for clients.
Lauren also reflects on the strong collaborative culture at Translink and how the support of the team has helped her develop her technical skills and build confidence.
Can you describe your role and the key responsibilities that come with it?
My role as an Executive is varied and requires a blend of both technical and interpersonal skills.
My key responsibilities include financial modelling, preparing marketing materials and data packs to support transactions.
Another important aspect of my work is conducting detailed company and industry research to develop a thorough understanding of our clients and the markets they operate in.
I also focus on building and maintaining strong client relationships to ensure they feel supported and well-informed throughout the M&A process.
What does a typical working day look like for you?
On a typical day, I walk to the office (weather permitting!), set my desk up, make a cup of tea, and write my to-do list.
My day varies depending on the stage of the projects I am working on, but it often involves preparing financial analysis and corresponding with clients and other stakeholders involved in transactions.
Throughout the day, I work closely with Analysts, Managers, and Partners to tackle tasks and deliver strong results for our clients.
What’s the one must-do activity that you do every day?
My must-do activity is writing a to-do list every morning. It helps me to focus on the key tasks I want to complete each day.
Working across multiple projects means priorities can shift quickly, so this routine helps me stay flexible whilst ensuring deadlines and client needs are met. It’s a simple habit, but it keeps me on track throughout the day.
What are some of the most challenging aspects of your job, and how do you overcome them?
One of the most challenging aspects of navigating a sales process is managing the uncertainty inherent in sell-side transactions.
There are always unknowns – how the market will respond, which potential acquirers will engage, what offers will look like, and what matters most to each party.
While many of these factors only become clear as the process unfolds, working reactively isn’t effective. To overcome this, preparation is key.
We invest time upfront to thoroughly understand the market and our client’s business. By conducting in-depth financial analysis and anticipating potential sticking points, we can take a pro-active, informed approach.
This keeps us on the front foot, helps us manage client expectations, and allows us to drive the process forward with control.
Can you share an example of a successful project or deal that you’ve worked on?
I recently worked on a transaction where I was heavily involved in managing the financial due diligence process. A core part of my role was collaborating with our client to provide accurate and meaningful data for the buyer’s review.
The process ran smoothly, with very few follow-up queries raised.
Are you seeing any trends emerging within the corporate finance landscape?
Yes, we’re seeing a clear shift towards technology-led approaches within corporate finance.
Internally, we’ve embraced this by integrating AI tools into our research process. These technologies are driving efficiency, enabling us to gain deeper insights and make more informed decisions.
What motivates you most in your work, and how do you ensure you continue to deliver value to your clients?
If I flip the question, my biggest motivator is delivering a quality service that truly makes a difference for our clients.
An important part of achieving this is recognising that every client and transaction is unique.
That’s why flexibility and proactivity is essential as it enables us to adapt and tailor our approach to deliver the best possible outcomes.
What skills or qualities do you think are essential for someone to excel in corporate finance advisory?
Communication is key. As a corporate finance advisor, you’re constantly engaging with multiple stakeholders – clients, buyers, lawyers, and other advisory teams – so being able to communicate clearly and manage expectations is essential for keeping transactions on track.
Equally important is the ability to listen and understand different perspectives. This helps identify gaps and align interests, which is crucial in finding solutions that work for all parties.
Combining strong communication with active listening strengthens relationships and builds trust which ultimately supports a smoother transaction.
What advice would you give to trainees starting out?
My advice to trainees is to take ownership of their development from day one. Get involved and make the most of every opportunity both within M&A and beyond the technical aspects of the role.
Actively engaging in projects and seeking opportunities to develop personally and professionally will set a strong foundation for their future career.
What’s one thing you learned in school that has stuck with you?
Just to be curious and continue to ask questions.
I’m fortunate to work in an experienced and talented team, where everyone has encountered different routes into M&A and had exposure to different deals.
There’s a wealth of knowledge in the team, so staying engaged, observing the different transactions that are ongoing, and asking considered questions has been key to driving my development.
Outside of work, how do you like to spend your time? Do you have any hobbies or interests?
Outside of work, I enjoy anything creative such as painting. I’ve recently started Pilates and I also like running – anything that helps me stay mindful and active.
What’s the biggest thing on your bucket list?
I’d love to go and visit some friends who have recently moved to Australia!
