Job Description

Private Equity Senior Associate

The Senior Associate will join a Chicago based private investment firm that partners with founderled companies to drive meaningful growth and build standout platforms. The team operates lean, values initiative, and gives Senior Associates real responsibility across sourcing, diligence, and portfolio execution.

If you want handson deal exposure, room to lead, and a seat where your impact is felt immediately, this is an exceptional opportunity.

Key Responsibilities

Deal Origination & Sourcing

• Identify and develop new investment opportunities through networking, conferences, and intermediary relationships.
• Collaborate with industry experts to develop sectorspecific investment theses.
• Maintain and leverage a network of investment bankers, advisors, and other intermediaries.
• Lead and coordinate the deal process from diligence to closing, including financial modeling, valuation, and negotiation.
• Perform indepth analysis of financial statements, industry trends, and market dynamics.
• Manage relationships with legal, tax, and financial advisors during the execution process.
• Oversee the preparation of investment committee materials and present findings to senior leadership.
• Work closely with portfolio companies to drive growth, operational improvement, and strategic initiatives.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and financial performance across portfolio companies.
• Support exit strategies through preparation for sale, IPO, or strategic partnership.
• Mentor and develop Analysts and Associates on the deal team.
• Collaborate with internal teams (investor relations, finance, legal) to align strategy and processes.
• Maintain a robust pipeline of potential investment opportunities and prioritize resources accordingly.
• Maintain relationships with industry experts, advisors, and potential management teams.
• Develop and expand industry knowledge to aid in deal flow.

Professional Experience & Qualifications

• Bachelors degree in Finance, Economics, or a related field.
• 46 years of relevant experience, with 2+ years in private equity and 2+ years in investment banking.
• Proven track record of leading transactions, including M&A, leveraged buyouts, and growth equity investments.
• Strong financial modeling, valuation, and analytical skills.
• Excellent negotiation and communication skills, with the ability to influence both internal and external stakeholders.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and perform under pressure.
• Strong leadership and mentoring abilities.
• Knowledge of relevant industries (e.g., healthcare, technology, consumer, industrials) is a plus.

Salary

$200,000 to $225,000, depending on experience.

About Soul Equity Solutions

Soul Equity is a retained Executive Search firm, dedicated exclusively to guiding Middle Market Private Equity Firms and their Portfolio Companies to bestinclass talent. We work exclusively with Middle Market Private Equity firms to grow their internal teams and transform their portfolio companies. Our boutique recruiting experience is highly bespoke and curated to our clients needs.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement

This firm is an equal opportunity employer. All aspects of employment including the decision to hire, promote, discipline, or discharge, will be based on merit, competence, performance, and business needs. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, marital status, age, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, pregnancy, genetic information, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status, or any other status protected under federal, state, or local law.

Job Details

• Seniority level: MidSenior level
• Employment type: Fulltime
• Job function: Finance
• Industries: Venture Capital and Private Equity Principals
• Location: Chicago, IL

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