Investment Banking Senior Analyst/Associate - Business Services

Investment Banking - M&A Advisory Senior Analyst & Experienced Associate Levels | Chicago We're partnered with a top-tier, growth-oriented investment banking advisory platform that is actively building out its sell-side M&A group in Chicago . The team advises private equity sponsors and founder‑owned / corporate clients on high-impact transactions, with a strong emphasis on sell-side mandates in high-growth sectors . This platform is known for lean deal teams, meaningful responsibility at the junior levels, and direct exposure to senior bankers and C-suite clients . Both roles are viewed as long-term, career-track opportunities for candidates who want deep execution experience in a highly collaborative, entrepreneurial environment. The Opportunity You'll work across the full M&A lifecycle , partnering closely with senior bankers on live sell-side processes while gaining exposure to multiple sectors and transaction structures. Junior team members are heavily involved in execution, client interaction, and strategic thinking - not siloed into narrow roles. The firm places a strong emphasis on training, mentorship, and internal advancement , making this a compelling opportunity for candidates looking to build a durable investment banking career rather than a short-term stepping stone. Responsibilities (Analyst & Associate) Execute financial analysis, valuation work, and transaction modeling for live and prospective M&A mandates Lead or support sell-side diligence , including financial, market, and business analysis Prepare and manage marketing materials , including CIMs, management presentations, and diligence exhibits Monitor industry trends and macro factors and translate insights into transaction positioning Anticipate execution risks and communicate issues to senior team members in real time Participate actively in client meetings, management calls, and drafting sessions Contribute to business development efforts through market research, sector analysis, and strategic frameworks Identify opportunities to improve internal processes, tools, and execution efficiency Additional expectations at these levels include: Reviewing and guiding analyst work product to ensure quality and accuracy Acting as a player‑coach by mentoring and developing junior team members Taking increased ownership of execution workflows and client deliverables Ideal Background Analyst level: 1-3 years of investment banking or equivalent M&A experience Associate level: Analyst promote or MBA hire with relevant transaction experience Prior sell-side advisory experience strongly preferred Strong technical foundation in accounting, financial modeling, and valuation Comfortable managing multiple workstreams in a fast-paced deal environment Clear, professional communicator with strong judgment under pressure Detail-oriented, intellectually curious, and execution-focused Proficient in Excel and PowerPoint Bachelor's degree required FINRA licensing (SIE, Series 79 & 63) to be obtained within required time frame Why This Role Stands Out Lean deal teams = real responsibility and visibility Heavy sell-side exposure with reputable sponsor and corporate clients Strong training culture with hands-on mentorship Collaborative, entrepreneurial environment without heavy bureaucracy Clear runway for professional development and internal progression