Investment Banking Senior Analyst/Associate - Business Services

Investment Banking - M&A AdvisorySenior Analyst & Experienced Associate Levels | ChicagoWe'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 OpportunityYou'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 mandatesLead or support sell-side diligence, including financial, market, and business analysisPrepare and manage marketing materials, including CIMs, management presentations, and diligence exhibitsMonitor industry trends and macro factors and translate insights into transaction positioningAnticipate execution risks and communicate issues to senior team members in real timeParticipate actively in client meetings, management calls, and drafting sessionsContribute to business development efforts through market research, sector analysis, and strategic frameworksIdentify opportunities to improve internal processes, tools, and execution efficiencyAdditional expectations at these levels include:Reviewing and guiding analyst work product to ensure quality and accuracyActing as a player‑coach by mentoring and developing junior team membersTaking increased ownership of execution workflows and client deliverablesIdeal BackgroundAnalyst level: 1-3 years of investment banking or equivalent M&A experienceAssociate level: Analyst promote or MBA hire with relevant transaction experiencePrior sell-side advisory experience strongly preferredStrong technical foundation in accounting, financial modeling, and valuationComfortable managing multiple workstreams in a fast-paced deal environmentClear, professional communicator with strong judgment under pressureDetail-oriented, intellectually curious, and execution-focusedProficient in Excel and PowerPointBachelor's degree requiredFINRA licensing (SIE, Series 79 & 63) to be obtained within required time frameWhy This Role Stands OutLean deal teams = real responsibility and visibilityHeavy sell-side exposure with reputable sponsor and corporate clientsStrong training culture with hands-on mentorshipCollaborative, entrepreneurial environment without heavy bureaucracyClear runway for professional development and internal progression