Business Development Associate
We are currently partnered with a Chicago-based private equity firm seeking a Business Development Associate to join their team. This is a high-impact role focused on driving proprietary deal flow and deepening relationships across core sectors. As part of a lean team, you'll work closely with the business development team and senior leadership to identify and engage high-potential companies, founders, and advisors. Your efforts will directly influence the firm's investment pipeline and the strategic growth of platform and add-on acquisitions.
Business Development Associate Key Responsibilities
- Conduct market research to identify acquisition targets aligned with the firm's investment thesis.
- Support mapping and outreach efforts for both platform and add-on opportunities.
- Execute cold outreach campaigns to founders and executives.
- Assist in building and maintaining relationships with industry advisors and company leadership.
- Collaborate with BD and investment teams to develop sourcing strategies and track pipeline activity.
- Manage CRM data, conference follow-ups, and contact lists to optimize outreach efforts.
- Contribute to the development of proprietary deal flow by identifying off-market opportunities.
- Support add-on acquisition strategies for existing portfolio companies.
Business Development Associate Qualifications
- Must be based in Chicago or open to relocating.
- Bachelor's degree in Finance, Economics, Business, or a related field.
- 1-3 years of experience in private equity, venture capital, investment banking, or a buy-side acquisition search/advisory firm.
- Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
- Highly organized with strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple priorities.
- Comfortable working in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment.
- Proficient in Excel and PowerPoint; familiarity with CRM and marketing automation tools is a plus.
Interested candidates, please apply!
FAQs
Congratulations, we understand that taking the time to apply is a big step. When you apply, your details go directly to the consultant who is sourcing talent. Due to demand, we may not get back to all applicants that have applied. However, we always keep your CV and details on file so when we see similar roles or see skillsets that drive growth in organisations, we will always reach out to discuss opportunities.
Yes. Even if this role isn’t a perfect match, applying allows us to understand your expertise and ambitions, ensuring you're on our radar for the right opportunity when it arises.
We also work in several ways, firstly we advertise our roles available on our site, however, often due to confidentiality we may not post all. We also work with clients who are more focused on skills and understanding what is required to future-proof their business.
That's why we recommend registering your CV so you can be considered for roles that have yet to be created.
Yes, we help with CV and interview preparation. From customised support on how to optimise your CV to interview preparation and compensation negotiations, we advocate for you throughout your next career move.