Private Equity Associate

We are seeking a highly analytical and driven Private Equity Associate to join a Lower Middle Market Private Equity investment team. The Associate will play a key role in evaluating new investment opportunities, executing transactions, supporting portfolio companies, and driving value creation initiatives across the fund. This is a fast-paced, high-responsibility role ideal for candidates with strong financial acumen, strategic thinking, and a passion for investing.

Key Responsibilities

1. Deal Sourcing & Evaluation

• Perform market research, competitive analysis, and sector mapping to identify attractive investment themes.
• Review inbound deal flow and conduct initial screening to assess alignment with investment criteria.
• Participate in meetings with management teams, bankers, advisors, and industry experts.

2. Financial Modeling & Due Diligence

• Build and maintain detailed financial models, including LBO, operating, and valuation models.
• Conduct rigorous due diligence across financial, commercial, operational, and legal workstreams.
• Coordinate with third-party advisors (consultants, accountants, lenders, lawyers) to validate assumptions and uncover risks.

3. Transaction Execution

• Support the end-to-end deal process from LOI to closing.
• Prepare internal investment committee materials, including memos, presentations, and risk assessments.
• Work closely with senior team members to negotiate transaction terms, structure financing, and review legal documentation.

4. Portfolio Management

• Partner with portfolio company leadership teams to track KPIs, analyze performance, and identify value creation opportunities.
• Support strategic initiatives such as M&A add-ons, pricing optimization, cost improvements, and market expansion.
• Prepare quarterly board materials and internal reporting.

5. Fund-Level Support

• Assist in investor reporting, fundraising materials, and responding to LP data requests.
• Contribute to ongoing improvements in firm processes, analytics, and knowledge management.

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Economics, Accounting, Engineering, or related field.
• 2-4 years of prior experience in investment banking or private equity.
• Advanced proficiency in Excel financial modeling and PowerPoint.
• Demonstrated ability to analyze complex financial data and synthesize insights.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present findings clearly and concisely.
• High level of professionalism, integrity, and attention to detail.

Preferred

• Experience executing M&A transactions or leveraged buyouts.
• Exposure to portfolio operations or value creation initiatives.
• Familiarity with data analytics tools (e.g., Tableau, PowerBI) is a plus.