Direct Lending Senior Associate
About The Firm
We are partnered with a global asset management firm with approximately $250bn in AUM and a long-standing reputation for delivering exceptional investment outcomes for clients. The firm's Private Credit team manages roughly $2bn in AUM, focusing on middle‑market, sponsor‑backed direct lending.
As the platform continues to scale, the team is seeking a Senior Associate to join its private credit team in their Chicago office. This individual will play a key role in evaluating new investment opportunities, conducting rigorous credit analysis, and supporting the execution and monitoring of private credit investments.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and support underwriting efforts for middle‑market, sponsor‑backed direct lending transactions.
- Perform detailed financial modeling, including leveraged buyout, cash flow, and downside scenario analyses.
- Conduct comprehensive due diligence, including industry research, competitive assessments, customer/supplier calls, and management meetings.
- Prepare and present investment memoranda and recommendations to the Investment Committee.
- Partner closely with private equity sponsors, management teams, and internal stakeholders throughout the deal process.
- Assist with ongoing portfolio monitoring, including covenant compliance, performance tracking, and valuation inputs.
- Contribute to the continuous enhancement of underwriting processes, frameworks, and best practices.
Qualifications
- 3-7 years of relevant experience in leveraged finance or private credit (preferably already in a direct lending role)
- Strong technical and analytical skill set, including advanced financial modeling capabilities.
- Experience working on middle‑market, sponsor-backed transactions is strongly preferred.
- Demonstrated ability to manage multiple deals simultaneously in a fast‑paced environment.
- Excellent communication skills, with the ability to craft clear, concise, and persuasive investment materials.
- Team-oriented mindset with strong attention to detail and intellectual curiosity.
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