Equity Research Analyst - U.S. Small & Mid-Cap Quality Strategy, KAR

Firm Overview Kayne Anderson Rudnick Investment Management is a Los Angeles‑based registered investment adviser managing over $50 billion in assets. We employ a high‑quality, low‑turnover, long‑term investment philosophy focused on companies with durable competitive advantages. Position Summary The Equity Research Analyst will perform deep fundamental research on small‑ and mid‑capitalization companies, evaluate business quality and sustainability of competitive advantages, and communicate well‑supported investment findings to Portfolio Managers. Key Responsibilities Fundamental Research & Idea Generation : Conduct deep bottom‑up research on U.S. small‑ and mid‑capitalization companies across assigned sectors; source prospective investments and maintain ongoing research on current holdings; evaluate various business models and compare relative strengths and weaknesses; identify competitive advantages; develop knowledge of industry structure, competitive trends, risks, and long‑term drivers. Financial & Valuation Analysis : Analyze and interpret financial statements and appraise valuation; relate qualitative business attributes with financial characteristics. Communication & Recommendation : Prepare written research reports, investment memos, and recommendation summaries; present findings to Portfolio Managers with clarity and well‑supported analysis; engage in portfolio review discussions and provide ongoing monitoring of portfolio holdings. External Engagement : Establish and maintain relationships with company contacts, industry experts, and other research sources; visit companies, attend conferences and industry events to deepen coverage areas. Collaboration & Firm Contribution : Work closely with Portfolio Managers and fellow analysts in a collaborative, idea‑driven environment; uphold the firm’s research process and contribute to shared learning; support special projects and analyses as requested by the Head of Research or Portfolio Managers. Qualifications Preferably 3+ years of buy‑side equity research experience, ideally covering small‑ or mid‑capitalization companies. Strong accounting and financial analysis skills. Ability to synthesize large amounts of qualitative and quantitative information into key investment insights. Skills in writing research reports and verbally articulating important investment considerations. MBA and/or CFA designation (or progress toward CFA). Success Profile A passion for investing. High intellectual curiosity, critical thinking skills, humility, and a long‑term mindset. Strong judgment and comfort with tactfully challenging consensus with well‑reasoned analysis. Compensation The starting base salary range is $140,000.00 to $175,000.00 plus variable compensation incentives. The position is eligible to participate in the annual incentive plan. This role requires U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residence; we do not sponsor work visas or provide support for OPT/CPT programs. Benefits at KAR Competitive Pay Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance Life and Disability Insurance Health Savings Account with a Company Match Flexible Spending Accounts, including Dependent Care Wellness Program Tuition Reimbursement 24‑Hour Employee Assistance Program Adoption Assistance Paid Family Care Time Paid Volunteer Days Gym onsite Paid Parking Fully stocked kitchen—lunch provided. Hybrid 3/2 (subject to change) Equal Opportunity Employer KAR is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status. #J-18808-Ljbffr Virtus Investment Partners, Inc