Introduction to Duff & Phelps LLC

Duff & Phelps LLC stands as a preeminent global investment banking and advisory firm, renowned for its expertise in valuation, corporate finance, restructuring, and dispute consulting. Headquartered in New York City, the firm has established a commanding presence across North America, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, serving Fortune 500 companies, private equity firms, and government entities. With over 3,000 employees and a legacy spanning more than 80 years, Duff & Phelps LLC consistently ranks among the top valuation and financial advisory firms worldwide. The company's reputation is built on delivering independent, data-driven insights that guide critical business decisions—from mergers and acquisitions to complex litigation. As a trusted adviser in the financial services industry, Duff & Phelps LLC combines deep technical knowledge with a client-first approach, making it a destination for top-tier talent. This profile provides an exhaustive look at the firm’s history, culture, services, and why it remains a leader in the competitive landscape of investment banking and valuation.

Company History and Business Evolution

Founded in 1932 by William Duff and George Phelps in Chicago, the firm originally focused on providing independent investment research and credit analysis. The early decades saw the firm gain trust for its rigorous approach to financial reporting, particularly during the Great Depression when reliable valuation was scarce. By the 1960s, Duff & Phelps had expanded into public credit ratings, eventually becoming a major competitor to Moody’s and S&P. A pivotal moment came in 2005 when the firm was acquired by a group including Fitch Group, leading to a strategic refocus on advisory services rather than credit ratings. In 2018, Duff & Phelps was itself acquired by Kroll, a global risk and financial advisory firm, yet it continues to operate under the Duff & Phelps brand, leveraging the combined resources of both entities. The evolution from a niche research house to a full-service investment bank illustrates its ability to adapt to changing market demands. Key milestones include the 2010 acquisition of Standard & Poor’s Corporate Value Consulting practice, the 2013 launch of the Duff & Phelps Compliance Practice, and the 2020 integration with Kroll’s cybersecurity offerings. Today, the firm is recognized for its thought leadership in valuation, with annual surveys like the Valuation Handbook and the Goodwill Impairment Study driving industry standards. The history of Duff & Phelps LLC is a story of resilience, innovation, and unwavering commitment to financial integrity.

Duff & Phelps LLC at a Glance

• Headquarters: New York, New York, USA
• Founded: 1932 by William Duff and George Phelps
• CEO: Jacob Silverman (as of 2024)
• Parent Company: Kroll (Ontario, Canada)
• Industry: Financial Services – Investment Banking, Valuation, and Advisory
• Revenue: Approximately $1.5 billion (2023 est.)
• Employees: 3,500+ globally
• Office Locations: 30+ offices worldwide including London, Hong Kong, Singapore, Sydney, and Dubai
• Key Services: Valuation Advisory, M&A Advisory, Restructuring, Dispute Consulting, Compliance and Regulatory Services
• Major Clients: 75% of Fortune 500 companies, top private equity firms, law firms, and government agencies
• Notable Awards: “Best Valuation Firm” by Global Finance, “Top 10 Financial Advisors” by Mergermarket
• Websites: duffandphelps.com (redirects to kroll.com)
• Subsidiaries: Stout Risius Ross (SRR) acquisition, Compliance Matters, etc.
• Public Status: Private (owned by Stone Point Capital and others)
• Professional Affiliations: Appraisal Foundation, American Society of Appraisers, CFA Institute
• Training & Development: Duff & Phelps University, mentoring programs, CPA/CFA support
• Diversity Initiatives: Women’s Network, LGBTQ+ Alliance, Veterans’ Group
• Technology: Proprietary valuation models, data analytics platforms, blockchain research
• Social Impact: Community service days, pro bono valuations for non-profits
• Recent Growth: Expansion of ESG advisory practice, Carbon offset consulting

Mission, Vision, and Core Corporate Values

The mission of Duff & Phelps LLC is to deliver independent, insightful, and high-impact financial advice that empowers clients to make confident decisions in a complex world. The vision is to be the premier global partner for valuation, governance, and risk advisory—setting the standard for excellence and integrity. Core values include Integrity: unyielding commitment to ethical behavior and transparency; Excellence: relentless pursuit of quality in every analysis and recommendation; Collaboration: fostering teamwork across disciplines and geographies; Innovation: embracing technology and new methodologies to solve emerging challenges; and Inclusion: creating a diverse workforce where every voice is heard. These values are embedded in the Duff & Phelps LLC culture, guiding everything from client engagements to internal decision-making. The firm regularly surveys employees to ensure alignment, and leadership visibly models these principles. For instance, Integrity is demonstrated through the firm’s strict conflict-check procedures and independent valuation opinions. Collaboration is seen in cross-office deal teams that combine local market knowledge with global expertise. These values are not just words on a website but are woven into performance reviews, recognition programs, and strategic planning.

Business Strategy and Future Roadmap

Duff & Phelps LLC’s strategy revolves around three pillars: Deepening advisory expertise, Expanding geographic footprint, and Leveraging technology. The firm is investing heavily in data analytics and artificial intelligence to enhance valuation accuracy and speed. For example, its proprietary ValuEdge AI platform uses machine learning to benchmark fair values across industries. Additionally, the firm is increasingly focusing on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) advisory, responding to client demand for sustainability-linked valuations and climate risk assessments. Geographically, Duff & Phelps is targeting high-growth markets in Southeast Asia and the Middle East, where cross-border M&A and infrastructure development create demand for advisory services. The roadmap also includes expanding the Compliance and Regulatory practice, as regulatory scrutiny intensifies globally. The firm aims to grow revenue by 8–10% annually through a combination of organic growth and strategic acquisitions. Recent hires in fintech and cybersecurity advisory reflect a commitment to staying ahead of market trends. The future of Duff & Phelps LLC is closely tied to its ability to integrate with Kroll’s risk management tools, offering clients a seamless continuum of financial and risk advisory services. The firm is also exploring blockchain-based tokenization of assets, positioning itself at the frontier of digital finance.

Products, Technologies, and Services

The service portfolio of Duff & Phelps LLC is comprehensive, spanning both traditional and emerging advisory needs. Valuation Advisory remains the cornerstone, covering financial reporting (goodwill impairment, purchase price allocation), tax valuation, and portfolio valuation for private equity and hedge funds. The M&A Advisory practice provides sell-side and buy-side transaction support, fairness opinions, and due diligence. Dispute Consulting assists law firms and corporations with complex litigation involving damages, lost profits, and intellectual property valuation. Restructuring and Insolvency services help distressed companies navigate Chapter 11 reorganizations and out-of-court debt restructurings. Additionally, the Compliance and Regulatory practice offers expertise in SEC filings, FINRA compliance, and anti-money laundering (AML) programs. Technology-wise, the firm has developed Duff & Phelps DataHub, a cloud-based platform that aggregates market data and enables real-time collaboration across deal teams. They also utilize Tableau and Power BI for interactive dashboards, and Alteryx for automated data processing. In the realm of Products, the firm publishes multiple annual reports such as the Valuation Handbook and Goodwill Impairment Study, which are widely referenced by CFOs and auditors. For younger companies, they offer ESOP valuation and employee stock option pricing. The breadth of services ensures that Duff & Phelps LLC can serve clients across the entire corporate lifecycle, from startup to mature enterprise and through restructuring.

Industries and Markets Served

Duff & Phelps LLC serves a diverse array of industries, leveraging its cross-functional expertise. Primary sectors include Financial Services, Technology & Telecom, Healthcare, Energy & Natural Resources, Consumer & Retail, and Real Estate. Within Financial Services, the firm advises banks, insurance companies, and asset managers on portfolio valuation and regulatory compliance. In Technology, they handle IP valuation and M&A for unicorns and established firms. Healthcare clients rely on them for fair value accounting of intangible assets like drug patents and customer relationships. Energy clients seek expertise in asset impairment testing amid oil price volatility. The firm also has a dedicated Government & Public Sector practice, assisting municipalities with infrastructure valuations and public-private partnerships. Geographically, North America accounts for about 60% of revenue, Europe 25%, and Asia Pacific 15%. The firm is increasingly active in Latin America through strategic alliances. Market segments include large-cap public companies (40%), private companies (35%), and financial sponsors (25%). With the rise of SPACs and special-purpose acquisition companies, Duff & Phelps has become a go-to provider of IPOs and business combination valuation services. The breadth of industry coverage ensures that Duff & Phelps LLC is resilient to economic cycles, as downturns often increase demand for restructuring and dispute consulting.

Leadership and Management Philosophy

The executive team at Duff & Phelps LLC is a blend of seasoned investment bankers, certified public accountants, and industry specialists. CEO Jacob Silverman brings over 30 years of experience in valuation and corporate finance, previously serving as President of the Valuation Service Group. The management philosophy is rooted in empowerment and accountability. Each office operates with a high degree of autonomy, allowing local leaders to tailor services to regional client needs while maintaining global quality standards. The firm employs a matrix structure that encourages collaboration across functions—for instance, a valuation analyst in New York might partner with a restructuring expert in London for a cross-border engagement. Leadership emphasizes continuous learning, with mandatory ethics training and annual leadership summits. The firm’s flat hierarchy relative to bulge-bracket banks means junior staff have direct access to senior managing directors, accelerating career development. The management also prioritizes diversity in leadership, with women holding 35% of senior roles and active mentorship programs for underrepresented groups. Decision-making is data-driven, with regular dashboards tracking profitability, client satisfaction, and employee engagement. The philosophy of “client success is our success” permeates every level, and leaders are evaluated not only on revenue but also on net promoter scores from clients and team retention rates.

Corporate Events, Conferences, and Community Engagement

Duff & Phelps LLC maintains a strong presence at industry conferences, including the ASA International Appraisers Conference, CFA Institute Annual Conference, and M&A Atlas Conference. Many senior professionals serve as speakers and panelists, sharing insights on valuation methodologies, regulatory changes, and market trends. The firm also hosts its own Duff & Phelps Valuation Summit each year in New York and London, attracting hundreds of CFOs, audit partners, and private equity professionals. Community engagement is a core component: employees participate in Pro Bono Valuation Projects for non-profits, and the firm sponsors the Duff & Phelps Financial Literacy Program in underserved schools. In terms of corporate social responsibility, the firm matches employee donations and grants paid time off for volunteering. Annual events like the Holiday Charity Gala raise funds for local food banks and disaster relief. The firm also organizes internal Innovation Hackathons where teams compete to develop new valuation models or efficiency tools. These events not only boost morale but also reinforce the firm’s culture of giving back. Duff & Phelps LLC has received several “Best Places to Work” awards, partly due to its community-focused initiatives.

Employees and Workplace Culture

Workplace culture at Duff & Phelps LLC is often described as collegial, intellectually stimulating, and meritocratic. The firm hires from top universities and business schools, and new hires undergo a rigorous onboarding at “Duff U,” a two-week training program covering technical skills, firm values, and soft skills. The culture emphasizes work-life balance relative to investment banking peers, with typical workweeks of 50–55 hours for analysts and associates, though deal times can require weekend work. The firm offers employee resource groups (ERGs) such as the Women’s Network, Black Professionals Alliance, and Pride@Duff, which host networking events and career development workshops. Annual employee satisfaction surveys consistently rank high, particularly in areas of “meaningful work” and “supportive managers.” The office environment is open-plan with collaborative spaces, and the New York headquarters features a cafe and wellness room. Benefits include generous paid time off, parental leave, 401(k) matching, and tuition reimbursement for professional certifications (CFA, ASA). Turnover is moderate, with many employees staying for 5–10 years before moving to client-side roles. The culture is best summed up by a senior managing director: “We treat each other like family, but we push each other to be the best.” For new hires, the experience is demanding yet rewarding, with clear advancement paths from Analyst to Vice President to Managing Director. Duff & Phelps LLC values humility and hustle, expecting employees to be both confident in their expertise and hungry to learn.

Job Details & Requirements for this Posting

Position: Financial Analyst (Valuation & Advisory)

We are seeking a Financial Analyst to join our Valuation Advisory team in New York. This role involves performing financial analysis, building and maintaining valuation models, conducting industry research, and preparing client presentations. You will work closely with senior analysts and managing directors on engagements for Fortune 500 companies and private equity clients. The ideal candidate has a strong quantitative background, excellent communication skills, and a desire to grow within a fast-paced, collaborative environment.

Responsibilities:

• Develop discounted cash flow (DCF) and comparable company analysis models.
• Analyze financial statements, market data, and industry trends to support valuations.
• Prepare reports and presentations for client meetings.
• Assist in due diligence for M&A transactions.
• Participate in pitch book preparation for new business development.
• Maintain internal databases and update methodologies.
• Support senior team members on complex valuation assignments.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Economics, or related field.
• 0–2 years of prior experience in investment banking, valuation, or audit preferred.
• Strong proficiency in Excel, PowerPoint, and financial databases (Bloomberg, Capital IQ).
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects under tight deadlines.
• Progress toward CFA or ASA designation is a plus.
• Authorized to work in the United States.

Why Join Duff & Phelps LLC?
As a Financial Analyst at Duff & Phelps LLC, you will gain direct exposure to high-profile transactions and build a foundation in valuation that is highly sought after across the industry. The firm offers robust training, mentorship from industry veterans, and a clear path to promotion. With a strong brand and global reach, a position here can open doors to opportunities in private equity, corporate development, and more. We invest in our people through continuous learning and a supportive culture. This role is ideal for someone who wants to work on challenging projects while maintaining a healthier work-life balance than traditional investment banking. We also offer competitive compensation including bonus potential, comprehensive benefits, and a dynamic team environment.

Customer Reviews and Industry Reputation

The reputation of Duff & Phelps LLC is a composite of feedback from clients, employees, and industry analysts. Below we examine reviews across major platforms.

Glassdoor

On Glassdoor, Duff & Phelps LLC holds a 4.1 out of 5 rating based on over 1,200 reviews. Employees praise the “strong learning curve” and “supportive culture,” especially for analysts who receive mentorship from senior staff. Common positives include “exposure to prestigious clients” and “flexible remote work options.” Criticisms often mention “long hours during busy season” and “hierarchical decision-making,” though many note that the culture is more relaxed than at bulge-bracket banks. Overall, 72% of reviewers would recommend the firm to a friend, and the CEO approval rating stands at 85%.

Indeed

Indeed shows a rating of 4.0 out of 5. Users highlight “great training programs” and “collaborative peers.” Several reviews note that new hires are given real responsibility early on. Downsides include “compensation not as high as top investment banks” and “limited geographic flexibility.” The firm’s response to reviews indicates a willingness to address concerns, with many management replies thanking employees for feedback. Indeed reviewers often compare the firm favorably to mid-tier advisory firms.

Gartner Peer Insights

As a valuation firm, Duff & Phelps is not typically reviewed on Gartner, but its parent Kroll appears with a 4.5 rating in “Business Risk Consulting.” Clients value the firm’s “deep subject matter expertise” and “ability to handle complex regulatory issues.” Specific feedback highlights the quality of valuation reports for tax purposes and litigation support. The firm is described as “responsive” and “thorough.”

Trustpilot

Trustpilot ratings for Duff & Phelps LLC are mixed, with an average of 3.8 out of 5. Corporate clients leave positive reviews for M&A advisory, praising “transparent communication” and “timely delivery.” However, some individual investors who purchased Duff & Phelps reports express disappointment with high fees. The firm actively responds to all reviews to maintain a professional image.

G2

On G2, the firm is not listed as a software product, but its valuation methodologies are often referenced in reviews of financial modeling tools. Indirectly, the brand is associated with reliability and accuracy. No direct reviews.

Google Reviews

Google Reviews (for the headquarters) average 4.3 stars. Former employees comment on “great office location” and “modern facilities.” Clients appreciate the “professionalism” of staff during meetings. A few negative reviews mention “high-pressure environment” but are outlier opinions.

LinkedIn Reputation

LinkedIn is a strong platform for Duff & Phelps LLC, with over 150k followers. Employees often share thought leadership articles, and the company’s page showcases wins, awards, and community events. The firm has a high “recommendation” rate on employee profiles. Key industry influencers view the firm as a top workplace for valuation professionals. Overall, the reputation is solidly positive, with the firm perceived as a credible, ethical, and innovative player in the financial advisory landscape.

Why Organizations Choose Duff & Phelps LLC

Organizations choose Duff & Phelps LLC for its independence, global reach, and specialized expertise. Unlike Big Four accounting firms that offer valuation as a side service, Duff & Phelps focuses exclusively on advisory, ensuring unbiased opinions free from audit conflicts. Its global presence means clients receive consistent quality across jurisdictions, which is crucial for multinational companies. The firm’s track record in complex litigation support—with expert testimony that withstands Daubert challenges—makes it a go-to for law firms. Additionally, the depth of its benchmarking data (e.g., cost of capital studies) provides unique insights. Many clients cite the “value-added” approach: analysts go beyond number-crunching to offer strategic advice. Speed and responsiveness are also differentiators; the firm’s project management ensures deadlines are met. Finally, the brand’s history and reputation offer a comfort level that smaller boutiques cannot match.

Official Contact Information

For inquiries and assistance, please reach out to Duff & Phelps LLC using the following contact details:

Address: 555 Madison Avenue, New York, NY 10022, USA
Contact Number: +1 (212) 450-2800
Support Number: +1 (866) 353-3331
Helpdesk Number: +1 (800) 711-5712
Website: https://www.duffandphelps.com

Official Social Media Presence

• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/duffandphelps
• Twitter: @duffandphelps
• YouTube: Duff & Phelps Channel
• Facebook: facebook.com/DuffandPhelps
• Instagram: @duffandphelps

SEO Frequently Asked Questions

Duff & Phelps LLC is known for its expertise in valuation advisory, M&A advisory, restructuring, and dispute consulting. It is one of the world’s leading independent financial advisory firms.

They offer valuation, fairness opinions, portfolio valuation, transaction advisory, litigation support, restructuring, and compliance services.

The headquarters are located at 555 Madison Avenue, New York, NY, USA.

The firm employs over 3,500 professionals across more than 30 offices worldwide.

Duff & Phelps is a subsidiary of Kroll, which is owned by Stone Point Capital and other investors.

Based on Glassdoor reviews, it is considered a top workplace with strong culture, training, and career growth, though hours can be long during busy periods.

For a Financial Analyst in New York, salaries range from $70,000 to $90,000 annually, plus bonus.

Compensation is competitive with mid-tier investment banks and slightly below bulge bracket, but benefits and work-life balance offset the difference.

Analysts typically advance to Associate after 2–3 years, then Vice President, Director, and Managing Director. Many move to client-side roles.

The culture is collegial, collaborative, and meritocratic, with emphasis on integrity and continuous learning.

Yes, they have Duff & Phelps University with formal training programs, mentorship, and support for professional certifications.

They have several employee resource groups, inclusive policies, and a goal of increasing underrepresented leadership.

They serve financial services, technology, healthcare, energy, consumer goods, real estate, and government sectors.

Highly regarded; their expert witnesses are often used in high-profile litigation and are known for rigorous analysis.

Clients rate the firm highly for technical expertise, responsiveness, and independence, with many long-term relationships.

Its independence from audit services, deep industry specialization, and global reach set it apart from Big Four and boutique firms.

The firm offers hybrid remote options, depending on role and manager discretion.

They use proprietary models, Bloomberg, Capital IQ, Excel, Tableau, Alteryx, and AI-driven analytics platforms.

Visit duffandphelps.com/careers to search current openings and apply online.

Typically includes a phone screen, 1–2 rounds of interviews (technical and behavioral), and a case study or modeling test.

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