Investment Banking Associate

Job Title: Associate

Department: Investment Banking

Reports To: Director, Investment Banking

FLSA Status: Exempt 

Location: Hybrid - Chicago, IL

Base Compensation: $83,000-$112,000 USD 

Bonus Eligible: Yes 

Sales personnel are eligible for variable incentive pay dependent on their achievement of pre-established sales goals. Non-Sales roles are eligible for a company bonus plan, which is calculated as a percentage of eligible wages and dependent on individual and company performance. 

About The Firm:

Houlihan Capital is an employee-owned leading, solutions-driven valuation, financial advisory and boutique investment banking firm committed to delivering superior client value and thought leadership in an ever-changing landscape. 

Houlihan Capital has extensive valuation experience providing companies with objective, independent, and defensible valuation opinions that meet accounting, regulatory, and corporate governance requirements. Our analyses and reports are transparent, supportable, and clearly outline the assumptions and projections incorporated into our financial models. We consistently apply sound valuation methodologies and unbiased perspective in our work product that enables management teams and fiduciaries to make confident, informed decisions.  

Investment Banking Associate - Job Description

Role Overview:

Associates play a central execution role on M&A sell-side and buy-side engagements, managing the day-to-day workflow of active transactions while mentoring Analyst-level team members. Associates are expected to operate with increasing independence across deal processes and client interactions.

Responsibilities:

• Support day-to-day transaction execution including process management, buyer/seller communication, and diligence coordination
• Produce high-quality financial analyses including operating model builds, pro forma capitalization structures, and sensitivity analyses
• Draft, review, and refine CIMs, management presentations, and offering materials
• Manage data room organization, due diligence trackers, and third-party advisor coordination
• Review and provide guidance on Analyst work product of active engagements
• Support Managing Directors, Directors, and VPs in developing pitch materials and new business opportunities

Requirements: 
• Bachelor’s degree required. Preferred majors include Finance, Accounting, and Economics.
• MBA preferred; CFA, CPA, or other relevant professional designation viewed favorably.
• 2–4 years of investment banking experience, with demonstrated exposure to M&A advisory.

• Series 79 and Series 63 licenses required.
• Mastery of core valuation methodologies and deal process mechanics.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with client-facing capability.
• Ability to manage multiple concurrent engagements and deliver under tight timelines.

Houlihan Capital is committed to diversity and provides employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, citizenship, national origin, age, disability, military service, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, or any other status protected by law.

If you require an accommodation in order to view or apply to open positions or for any other part of the application or employment process, please email hr@houlihancapital.com.