Description

Associate, Private Equity

Location: Charlotte, North Carolina
Position: Associate
Industry Focus: Diversified Industries, Business Services, Consumer, Industrial, Distribution, and Niche Manufacturing

Firm Overview

Our client is a leading lower middle market private investment firm focused on partnering with founder-owned and family-owned businesses across North America. The firm invests in established companies with strong market positions and supports management teams through strategic initiatives, operational improvements, and growth-oriented acquisitions.

The investment team operates in a highly entrepreneurial environment, providing professionals with significant transaction exposure, direct interaction with senior leadership, and the opportunity to participate in all aspects of the investment lifecycle.

Position Overview

The Associate will play an integral role in sourcing, evaluating, executing, and managing private equity investments. This individual will work closely with senior investment professionals and portfolio company management teams, gaining broad exposure across investment analysis, due diligence, transaction execution, portfolio monitoring, and value creation initiatives.

This is an excellent opportunity for a highly motivated investment professional seeking significant responsibility and career development within a collaborative, team-oriented investment platform.

Key Responsibilities

Transaction Execution

• Evaluate new investment opportunities across targeted sectors.
• Build and analyze detailed financial models, including LBO, merger, acquisition, and operating models.
• Conduct industry, market, and competitive landscape research.
• Assist in performing due diligence, including management meetings, customer calls, market studies, and third-party advisor coordination.
• Participate in investment committee materials and recommendations.
• Support transaction negotiations and closing processes.

Portfolio Management

• Monitor portfolio company financial performance and operating metrics.
• Assist management teams with strategic growth initiatives and acquisition opportunities.
• Participate in board meeting preparation and portfolio reviews.
• Analyze operating trends and identify value creation opportunities.

Business Development

• Support senior team members in originating investment opportunities.
• Track industry trends, sectors, and proprietary deal flow channels.
• Develop relationships with intermediaries, executives, lenders, and service providers.

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor's degree with a strong academic record.
• 2 to 4 years of experience in:
  • Investment Banking
  • Transaction Advisory Services
  • Private Equity
  • Corporate Development
  • Leveraged Finance
• Advanced proficiency in financial modeling and valuation analysis.
• Strong analytical and quantitative capabilities.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Demonstrated attention to detail and ability to manage multiple priorities.