Private Equity Associate

About the Role

A private equity firm located in Chicago focusing on lower-middle market investments within healthcare and business services is hiring a Private Equity Associate for Q1 2027. This role offers a rare chance to join a small, highly acquisitive team with substantial responsibilities early on, providing practical deal exposure and involvement in all facets of the investment process.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive market and industry research to support investment decisions.
• Develop financial models, perform valuation and returns analyses across various investment opportunities.
• Lead due diligence activities for prospective investments.
• Oversee and monitor existing investment portfolio performance.
• Support operational and portfolio company initiatives alongside the team.

Qualifications

• 1 to 3 years of experience in investment banking specializing in mergers and acquisitions at recognized middle or lower middle market banks; transaction advisory consulting experience will also be considered.
• Bachelor's degree is required.
• Strong expertise in financial analysis, modeling, budgeting, and forecasting, including passing a financial modeling test.
• Excellent interpersonal communication skills paired with a strong work ethic.
• Demonstrated interest or prior experience in sectors like healthcare, business services, industrials, manufacturing, or consumer goods.