Private Equity Analyst/Associate

Job Description

Chesapeake Search Partners is partnering with an established private investment platform to identify a highly motivated Private Equity Associate to join its investment team. The firm focuses on acquiring and growing lower middle-market businesses in essential industries, with an emphasis on companies that generate stable cash flow and long-term value. This is an outstanding opportunity for an investment professional seeking hands-on experience across the entire investment lifecycle while working directly with senior decision-makers in a lean, entrepreneurial environment.

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Key Responsibilities

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Transaction Execution

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• Evaluate acquisition opportunities and perform initial investment screening.
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• Develop and maintain detailed financial models, including LBO, operating, valuation, and return analyses.
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• Conduct business valuations utilizing discounted cash flow, comparable company, and precedent transaction methodologies.
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• Participate in all phases of the acquisition process, including due diligence, financing, negotiations, closing, and post-acquisition integration.
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• Prepare investment memorandums, presentations, and supporting materials for internal decision-making.
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Financial Analysis & Due Diligence

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• Analyze historical financial statements and operating performance.
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• Review quality of earnings reports, debt agreements, legal documentation, and other diligence materials.
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• Coordinate with outside advisors, lenders, accountants, consultants, and legal counsel throughout the transaction process.
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• Identify key risks, opportunities, and value creation initiatives.
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Industry Research

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• Perform market and industry research to identify attractive investment sectors and acquisition targets.
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• Analyze competitive landscapes, consolidation opportunities, and emerging market trends.
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• Build investment theses supported by qualitative and quantitative research.
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Portfolio Support

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• Assist portfolio company leadership with financial reporting, operating performance reviews, strategic initiatives, and acquisition opportunities.
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• Monitor portfolio company performance against investment expectations and identify areas for operational improvement.
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Team & Process Development

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• Help improve internal investment processes, reporting templates, CRM systems, and transaction workflows.
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• Contribute ideas that improve efficiency and strengthen the firm's investment platform.
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Qualifications:

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• 2-5 years of experience in private equity, investment banking, leveraged finance, transaction advisory, or a related field.
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• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Economics, or a related discipline required; MBA, CFA, or CPA is a plus.
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• Strong experience with financial modeling, valuation, M&A transactions, and due diligence.
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• Advanced Excel skills with knowledge of LBO modeling, financial statement analysis, and capital structures.
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• Familiarity with research and financial databases such as PitchBook, Capital IQ, AlphaSense, or similar platforms.
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• Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills with exceptional attention to detail.
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• Self-motivated professional who thrives in a fast-paced environment, exercises sound judgment, and takes ownership of projects.
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