Private Equity Senior Associate

Private Equity VP or Senior Associate

This Chicago-based private equity firm was founded by experienced operators and investors who have built and led businesses themselves. Their focus is the lower middle market, where they partner with exceptional, values-driven entrepreneur-owned businesses whose founders care deeply about what they've built and who deserves to carry it forward.

The firm is now looking for an exceptional VP or Senior Associate to join the team and help drive that mission forward.

This is a rare opportunity to get in early with a differentiated firm and work directly with senior leadership across all aspects of the investment process, from sourcing and diligence to execution and portfolio support. The right candidate will develop a truly differentiated investing skillset while playing a meaningful role in helping outstanding entrepreneurs realize the full potential of what they have built.

If you are intellectually curious, hungry to do real work, and energized by the idea of building something special, read on.

This is an origination-focused role for someone who wants to build the deal pipeline of a growing US private equity platform. You will be responsible for identifying and cultivating the intermediary relationships that bring proprietary and intermediated opportunities to the firm.

Key Responsibilities

• Mapping and developing relationships with M&A intermediaries, advisers, and brokers across the US lower-mid market
• Proactively identifying target businesses and sectors that fit the firm's investment criteria
• Managing inbound deal flow and conducting initial screening and qualification
• Representing the firm at industry events, conferences, and intermediary meetings
• Maintaining a disciplined CRM and pipeline tracking process
• Collaborating with the Founder and deal team to ensure a consistent flow of high-quality opportunities
• Supporting early-stage deal analysis where required

Professional Experience & Qualifications

• 25 years of experience in private equity, M&A advisory, leveraged finance, investment banking, or management consulting
• Strong financial modelling and analytical skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication
• Comfortable operating in a small team without heavy institutional infrastructure
• Self-starter with high ownership mentality

Education

An undergraduate degree is required.