Private Equity VP / SVP

Vice President / Senior Vice President - Deal Team

Location: Chicago, IL (with travel as required)
Reports To: Managing Director

About the Firm

A private equity firm specializing in control investments in middle-market businesses, particularly those undergoing operational or financial transformation. The firm employs a hands-on, operationally intensive approach to value creation, with a focus on sectors such as specialty chemicals, industrial manufacturing, food ingredients, and metal forming.

Position Summary

The VP/SVP on the Deal Team is a senior leader responsible for driving the firm's investment strategy through sourcing, executing, and managing transactions. This individual will oversee deal teams, lead negotiations, and play a critical role in portfolio company governance and performance improvement. Based in Chicago, the VP/SVP will have significant influence on investment decisions and firm-wide initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

• Origination & Strategy

  • Develop and maintain relationships with intermediaries, executives, and industry contacts to source proprietary deal flow.
  • Shape sector strategies and identify thematic investment opportunities.

• Transaction Leadership

  • Lead execution of new investments, including financial modeling, valuation, due diligence, and deal structuring.
  • Negotiate key transaction terms and manage Investment Committee presentations.

• Team Leadership

  • Mentor and manage Principals, Associates, and Analysts throughout the deal process.
  • Coordinate external advisors and ensure efficient execution of complex transactions.

• Portfolio Oversight

  • Serve on boards or act as a key liaison with portfolio company leadership.
  • Drive strategic planning, operational improvements, and exit strategies in collaboration with management teams and operating partners.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of experience in private equity, investment banking, corporate development, or management consulting.
• Proven track record of sourcing and closing transactions, with leadership in complex M&A processes.
• Strong financial modeling, valuation, and negotiation skills.
• Deep understanding of industrial or manufacturing sectors preferred.
• Exceptional leadership and communication abilities.
• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Economics, or related field; MBA or advanced degree strongly preferred.