Welcome to The Investor Relations Podcast

Peter W. McDermott

Peter W. McDermott Profile Photo

Senior Client Partner, Global Corporate Affairs and IR, Head of Corporate Affairs Practice NA

Based in New York City, Peter McDermott is Senior Client Partner, Global Corporate Affairs and IR, and Head of the Corporate Affairs Practice for North America, for Korn Ferry.

A seasoned corporate affairs search consultant, with both US and European experience, Mr. McDermott has an impressive international track record placing senior-level corporate communications, IR, financial communications, corporate and public affairs, and brand PR talent, across a wide spectrum of clients.

Mr. McDermott joined Korn Ferry from a global boutique firm specialized in the communications and IR functions, where he held leadership positions in both their London and New York offices. Mr. McDermott also spent time in the APAC region doing both candidate and business development. Previously, Mr. McDermott was with a global executive search firm, where he supported diverse financial services practices through research, candidate identification and outreach.

He began his career as an intern with Bloomberg LP.

Mr. McDermott is active in several of the professional organizations that are connected with the top functional leaders; He serves on the board of the National Investor Relations Institute, New York; and is part of the team that sponsors the Korn Ferry/NIRI Study of the function. He is also Vice Chair, on the Operating Committee and co-Chair of the Membership Committee of Page Up, part of the Arthur W. Page Society, and on the Board of The LAGRANT Foundation, which promotes diversity in the field of advertising, marketing, and public relations. He is also on the Diversity Action Alliance Advisory Committee. Mr. McDermott is a graduate of the University of Richmond with a bachelor's degree in Rhetoric and Communications Studies and American Studies, coupled with a concentration in Ethnic Studies and a minor in History.

July 7, 2025

Navigating IR Job Searches Beyond LinkedIn

Strategic Networking: Beyond LinkedIn for Senior Professionals In this episode, we discuss effective networking strategies for securing high-level roles in investor relations. Emphasizing the limitations of solely using LinkedIn, we recommend leveraging professional organizations, personal outreach, and strategic follow-ups with key individuals within target companies. The video provides practical tips on how to engage with finance teams and hiring managers, fostering meaningful connections th...
June 25, 2025

What are Some Resume Red Flags?

Navigating Job Turnover and Presenting a Strong Resume This episode addresses the importance of understanding and evaluating recent job turnover. It highlights the need for hiring managers to consider candidates' long-term tenure at past positions and advises candidates on how to explain frequent job changes. The video also underscores the significance of maintaining legitimate and verifiable work experiences when not in a corporate role. Disclaimer: Joshua Wilson is a registered investment b...
May 22, 2025

Can Experience Outshine Credentials in IR?

Enhancing Your Investor Relations Career: Credentials and Experience This episode discusses the importance of financial acumen and varying career backgrounds in the field of investor relations. It provides insights on whether certifications like CFA or MBA are necessary depending on your prior experience. The video offers advice for those transitioning from communications roles and competing against candidates with financial certifications. Disclaimer: Joshua Wilson is a registered investment...
April 30, 2025

Entrepreneurs: Cohesive Career Story from Spotty Resume

How to Navigate a Spotty Resume in the Startup and Venture Capital World In this episode, we discuss how founders and entrepreneurs with seemingly spotty resumes can present themselves as ideal candidates during turbulent times. Our discussion delves into the importance of tying together motivations for career moves and rebranding through acquisitions to showcase a clear career trajectory. We also offer advice on how to demonstrate impact in short-term roles and suggest strategies, such as wor...
April 25, 2025

How Can You Avoid Common Resume Pitfalls?

Essential Resume Tips: What to Avoid for a Successful Application In this interview, we explore essential resume tips to avoid common pitfalls. Learn why overloading your resume with logos, charts, and excessive details can be detrimental. Discover the importance of highlighting your career progression, key impact areas, and relevant experience in a clear and concise manner. Find out what recruiters weigh most heavily and how to format your resume effectively for maximum impact. Disclaimer: J...
April 18, 2025

Which Credentials Matter For Investor Relations Careers

Key Credentials and Qualifications in Investor Relations This episode discusses the types of credentials that are important in investor relations (IR) and what CFOs and hiring managers look for in resumes and pedigrees. It covers advanced certifications and degrees such as CFA, IRC, MBA, and CPA, explaining how each demonstrates strong financial, commercial, and business acumen. The script highlights that while these degrees are important, hiring is also significantly influenced by the overal...
April 16, 2025

What is Activism and How Can IR Teams Be Prepared?

The Evolving Role of Activism and Investor Relations This episode explores the longstanding presence of activism in corporate environments and the evolving role of Investor Relations (IR) in managing activist demands. It discusses the diverse agendas of activists, from executive changes and board seats to recent focuses on ESG and D&I commitments. The merging of public events, political impacts on markets, and intense media scrutiny requires IR professionals to be proactive, data-driven, and w...
April 9, 2025

The Evolution of Finance Roles: Peter McDermott on IR Careers

Insights on Transitioning to Investor Relations In this episode, Peter discusses the increasing trend of analysts and finance professionals moving into Investor Relations (IR) roles. He highlights the interest from CFOs, boards, and hiring managers in candidates with investor mindset and street experience, noting that professionals from sell side, buy side, investment banking, and accounting often transition to IR. Peter also emphasizes the importance of financial acumen, credibility, relation...
April 8, 2025

Job Searching During Uncertain Times

Navigating Job Searching During Uncertain Times: In times of economic uncertainty, job searching can seem like a daunting task. With turmoil in the capital markets and the reality of widespread layoffs, it’s understandable for job seekers to feel apprehensive. However, times of uncertainty also present unique opportunities, particularly for professionals in investor relations. In a recent conversation between Josh and Peter, the role of investor relations during economic upheaval was explored i...
April 4, 2025

Compensation in Investor Relations

Evolution of Compensation Structures in Investor Relations In this episode, Peter addresses common questions concerning the evolving structure and setup of compensation in investor relations. He explains the typical components of compensation for publicly traded companies, which include a base salary, bonus, and equity. Peter highlights the creativity companies employ in equity vesting schedules and the yearly increases in base salary and bonuses in alignment with other finance leadership role...
March 28, 2025

Managing Hot Topics in Investor Relations

Navigating Hot Topics Like ESG and DEI in Investor Relations This episode discusses how investor relations (IR) leaders are managing conversations around Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). It addresses the complexities faced by IR leaders, including the scrutiny from activists and the need for adaptable strategies. The discussion highlights the evolving nature of these topics and the influence of political factors on investor relations. The...
March 26, 2025

How Do You Get Into Investor Relations

Navigating a Career in Investor Relations: Insights and Future Trends In this episode, Peter delves into the intricacies of starting and advancing a career in Investor Relations (IR). He explains the historical rotation model and how IR has evolved into a dedicated career path. Peter highlights the various backgrounds IR professionals come from, such as accounting, corporate finance, communications, and the buy and sell sides of the financial world. He discusses how IR roles often expand to in...
March 21, 2025

Understanding The IR Function From Boards Seats to C-Suites

Common Misunderstandings in Investor Relations (IR) by Boards and C-Suites In this episode, Peter discusses the common misconceptions within Investor Relations (IR) faced by boards, CEOs, and CFOs. He highlights how the evolving nature of IR leads to varied expectations and uses across different organizations. The discussion covers the importance of understanding IR’s function beyond just stock price monitoring and ensuring executives are well-prepared to handle market dynamics without being o...
March 18, 2025

The Evolution of Investor Relations: From PR to Strategic Partner

The Evolution of Investor Relations: From PR to Strategic Finance Partner In this episode, Peter discusses the significant changes in investor relations roles over the past few years. He explains how investor relations has transitioned from being primarily a communications and administrative role for the CFO to becoming a strategic finance partner with direct reporting to the CFO. Key insights from a recent survey are shared, showing that 69% of investor relations officers now report directly ...