Investment Banking Associate | Consumer M&A

Location: Chicago, IL

Our client, a highly respected middle-market investment bank is seeking an Investment Banking Associate to join its growing Consumer practice. The team advises founder-owned, private equity-backed, and public companies on a broad range of strategic transactions, with a particular focus on branded consumer products, e-commerce, retail, and related sectors.

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced investment banker to join a collaborative, execution-focused team and gain meaningful exposure to live transactions, client management, and senior leadership. The Associate will play a critical role in all phases of the deal process while working directly with clients, investors, and senior bankers on complex M&A engagements.

Key Responsibilities

• Support senior bankers in the execution of M&A transactions and ongoing client engagements
• Build and maintain detailed financial models, valuation analyses, and other quantitative assessments
• Conduct industry research, market analysis, and business due diligence
• Prepare client presentations, marketing materials, confidential information memoranda, and management presentations
• Assist in transaction marketing efforts and buyer outreach initiatives
• Coordinate transaction processes and manage multiple workstreams simultaneously
• Participate in client meetings and contribute to strategic advisory discussions

Qualifications

• 3+ years of investment banking experience, preferably within M&A advisory
• Prior sell-side transaction experience is highly preferred
• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Business, Economics, or a related field
• Strong understanding of valuation methodologies, accounting principles, and financial statement analysis
• Advanced financial modeling and analytical capabilities
• Demonstrated experience preparing marketing materials and managing transaction execution processes
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage competing priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Proven ability to work effectively both independently and within a team environment

Why Consider This Opportunity

• Exposure to a high-volume middle-market M&A practice
• Opportunity to work directly with senior bankers and clients
• Significant transaction responsibility and hands-on execution experience
• Strong deal flow across consumer products, retail, and e-commerce sectors
• Collaborative culture with clear opportunities for professional development and advancement

This position is ideal for an investment banking Analyst ready for promotion or an Associate looking to broaden transaction exposure within a well-established consumer-focused advisory platform.