Investment Banking Associate 1/2 Industrials M&A

Job Description

Job Description

Our client, a leading international investment bank, is seeking an Associate 1 or Associate 2 level banker to join their Industrials team in Chicago. This established global firm operates across 24 locations throughout Asia, Europe, and the US, with over 750 professionals delivering tailored, independent advice across M&A, debt raisings and restructurings, private capital markets, and secondary advisory.

Their dedicated Industrials team combines deep sector knowledge with extensive transaction experience both domestically and internationally — providing top-tier M&A advisory and capital raising services to public and private companies, and financial sponsors, across the industrials landscape. Coverage spans a broad range of sub-sectors, including Advanced Manufacturing & Diversified Industrials; Building Products, Energy Technology & HVAC; Chemicals & Advanced Materials; Industrial Automation & Electronics; Safety & Protection; Automotive & Mobility; Paper, Packaging & Printing; Transportation, Logistics & Supply Chain; and Industrial & Infrastructure Services.

As an Associate, you will work on focused deal teams with direct client exposure and meaningful transaction responsibility from day one across diverse Industrials verticals.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead coordination of M&A advisory transactions and debt raisings
• Prepare and review confidential information memoranda, management presentations, and marketing materials
• Develop comprehensive financial analyses and valuation models
• Conduct sector-specific and company due diligence
• Build relationships with senior bankers, corporate clients, private equity firms, and strategic investors
• Mentor and train Analyst team members

Required Qualifications

• Undergraduate degree
• Investment banking background with Industrials M&A experience (strong preference for closed deals)
• Advanced financial modeling and valuation analysis expertise in Excel
• Relevant FINRA licenses (SIE, Series 63, Series 79)
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills with strong attention to detail
• Team-oriented work style with proven analytical capabilities
• Current or recent Industrials sector experience strongly preferred

Ideal Candidate Profile

• Currently at Associate 1 or Associate 2 level with proven transaction execution track record
• Experience across Industrials sub-sectors (advanced manufacturing, building products & HVAC, chemicals & advanced materials, industrial automation, transportation & logistics, industrial services, etc.)
• Ability to manage multiple workstreams in fast-paced environments
• Strong business judgment and strategic thinking
• Self-motivated with ownership mentality
• Passion for industrial technologies, manufacturing innovation, and the evolving industrials landscape

What Our Client Offers

• Small deal teams enabling accelerated learning and responsibility
• Direct exposure to complex Industrials transactions and senior leadership
• Clear advancement opportunities and mentorship from experienced bankers
• Collaborative, entrepreneurial culture with access to decision-making
• Global platform with deep industry expertise across 11 sector-focused teams
• Highly competitive compensation including base salary, discretionary bonus, and long-term incentives
• Comprehensive benefits package (health, dental, vision, 401(k) with match)
• Professional development support

Work Authorization: Candidates must be authorized to work in the US on a permanent basis. Visa sponsorship and H1B/TN transfers are not available at this time.

Location: Chicago (in-office position)

Timeline: This is an active search with interviews beginning immediately. Qualified candidates will be contacted promptly.