Private Equity Associate

Responsibilities:

Deal Sourcing & Evaluation

· Identify and evaluate acquisition opportunities in the lower-middle market

· Conduct in-depth due diligence, financial modeling, and industry analysis

· Assess cultural and operational fit to ensure alignment with our long-term mission

Transaction Execution

· Support all phases of deal execution: negotiation, structuring, documentation, and closing

· Collaborate closely with legal counsel, advisors, and internal stakeholders

Post-Investment Engagement

· Work side-by-side with portfolio company leadership to drive growth and operational improvements

· Support strategic initiatives, performance tracking, and long-term value creation

Legacy-Focused Transitions

· Build trusted relationships with founders and employees

· Ensure smooth, people-first transitions, no layoffs, no relocations, no bureaucracy

Cross-Functional Collaboration

· Contribute to internal team initiatives including process development, recruiting, and firm strategy

· Take ownership beyond your role and grow with the firm

Travel

· Regular travel to portfolio companies for on-site engagement and support

Requirements:

Strategic Mindset & Analytical Strength

· Strong grasp of financial modeling, business analysis, and investment strategy

· Ability to evaluate opportunities holistically financial, operational, and cultural

Entrepreneurial Energy

· Comfortable operating in ambiguity and wearing multiple hats

· Motivated by impact and building sustainable value in the real economy

Operational Curiosity

· Genuine interest in small business operations, leadership dynamics, and market strategy

· Eager to learn what makes businesses thrive from the inside out

People-First Perspective

· Strong interpersonal skills and emotional intelligence

· Respect for legacy, values, and the communities behind each business

Clear, Confident Communicator

· Excellent verbal and written communication skills

· Capable of building trust with owners, operators, and teammates alike

Qualifications:

· Education: Bachelor's degree in Business, Finance, Economics, Engineering, or related field; MBA or advanced degree is a plus

· Experience: 2+ years in private equity, investment banking, management consulting, or hands-on operating roles

· Technical Skills: Advanced Excel modeling, due diligence, deal execution, and KPI-driven performance analysis

· Preferred Background: Experience in lower-middle-market transactions or industrial sectors strongly preferred