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Vault recently spoke with Meredith Rivas, a Director at EY-Parthenon, about what she enjoys most about her role, the type of clients she works with, the skills and experiences she recommends to those looking to join the firm, and much more.
Vault: What does your practice area focus on, and how does it contribute to the broader mission of EY-Parthenon?
Meredith: Our business valuation practice focuses on tax and financial reporting valuations as well as strategic corporate finance advisory services. By collaborating closely with clients’ financial planning and analysis (FP&A) teams, we help strengthen financial management and support our EY-Parthenon mission of delivering strategic insights.
Vault: Who are your typical clients, and what kinds of challenges do they bring to your team?
Meredith: We primarily work with large, publicly traded companies that face intense pressure to deliver timely, accurate financial results that shareholders can trust.
Vault: What skills, experiences or learning paths would you recommend to someone interested in corporate finance or valuation?
Meredith: A strong foundation in accounting and finance is essential, but skills in coding and artificial intelligence (AI) are increasingly valuable. Combining technical knowledge with financial knowledge creates a powerful skill set for success in corporate finance and valuation.
Vault: What led you to this practice area? Was it a planned path or a discovery along the way?
Meredith: I found this path after exploring several areas of finance — wealth management, investment banking and strategic consulting — along with learning about public accounting. Valuation felt like the perfect blend of what I’d learned and what I wanted to do. Large firms like Ernst & Young LLP (EY US) can feel overwhelming, so working with a recruiter was key to finding the right fit.
Vault: What’s changed since you joined EY-Parthenon? How has your role or the firm’s capabilities grown?
Meredith: Since joining EY-Parthenon, I’ve seen major changes — from the integration of AI into daily workflows, to expanded learning opportunities, and continued investment in local office culture. These developments have supported my growth from intern to new hire to newly promoted director.
Vault: What do you enjoy most about your work—and what keeps you motivated?
Meredith: I love the ability to reinvent your role as you move from project to project — each project is different and requires different things from each person. Whether it is a change in industry, capability or teammates, things stay fresh with a project-based environment.
Vault: What motivates you to stay connected with colleagues you started with, and how do those relationships influence your work today?
Meredith: The colleagues I started with are an essential part of my network. They’re my first point of contact for new challenges — providing answers, support and sometimes just reassurance. Those relationships remain a daily lifeline, my go-to “phone a friend.”
Vault: How do you balance the demands of project travel, in-person events and remote work to maintain your wellbeing and flexibility?
Meredith: Balancing travel, events and remote work starts with clear communication. I’ve learned that being upfront about personal commitments and limitations fosters trust and encourages others to do the same — creating a more collaborative and supportive environment.
Vault: What advice would you give to someone navigating their first year in the EY-Parthenon practice?
Meredith: Be yourself and prioritize personal connections. Building relationships takes extra effort, but those connections create strong networks and make it easier to ask questions and feel supported.
This post was sponsored by EY-Parthenon.
Disclaimer: The views reflected in this article are the views of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Ernst & Young LLP or other members of the global EY organization.
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