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PRIVATE EQUITY ASSOCIATE

Baltimore County, MD

$125k-$150k + Bonus

Chesapeake Search Partners is partnering with an established private investment platform to identify a highly motivated Private Equity Associate to join its investment team. The firm focuses on acquiring and growing lower middle-market businesses in essential industries, with an emphasis on companies that generate stable cash flow and long-term value. This is an outstanding opportunity for an investment professional seeking hands-on experience across the entire investment lifecycle while working directly with senior decision-makers in a lean, entrepreneurial environment.

Transaction Execution

  • Evaluate acquisition opportunities and perform initial investment screening.
  • Develop and maintain detailed financial models, including LBO, operating, valuation, and return analyses.
  • Conduct business valuations utilizing discounted cash flow, comparable company, and precedent transaction methodologies.
  • Participate in all phases of the acquisition process, including due diligence, financing, negotiations, closing, and post-acquisition integration.
  • Prepare investment memorandums, presentations, and supporting materials for internal decision-making.
Financial Analysis & Due Diligence
  • Analyze historical financial statements and operating performance.
  • Review the quality of earnings reports, debt agreements, legal documentation, and other diligence materials.
  • Coordinate with outside advisors, lenders, accountants, consultants, and legal counsel throughout the transaction process.
  • Identify key risks, opportunities, and value creation initiatives.
Industry Research
  • Perform market and industry research to identify attractive investment sectors and acquisition targets.
  • Analyze competitive landscapes, consolidation opportunities, and emerging market trends.
  • Build investment theses supported by qualitative and quantitative research.
Portfolio Support
  • Assist portfolio company leadership with financial reporting, operating performance reviews, strategic initiatives, and acquisition opportunities.
  • Monitor portfolio company performance against investment expectations and identify areas for operational improvement.
Team & Process Development
  • Help improve internal investment processes, reporting templates, CRM systems, and transaction workflows.
  • Contribute ideas that improve efficiency and strengthen the firm's investment platform. 
  • 2-5 years of experience in private equity, investment banking, leveraged finance, transaction advisory, or a related field.
  • Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Economics, or a related discipline required; MBA, CFA, or CPA is a plus.
  • Strong experience with financial modeling, valuation, M&A transactions, and due diligence.
  • Advanced Excel skills with knowledge of LBO modeling, financial statement analysis, and capital structures.
  • Familiarity with research and financial databases such as PitchBook, Capital IQ, AlphaSense, or similar platforms.
  • Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills with exceptional attention to detail.
  • Self-motivated professional who thrives in a fast-paced environment, exercises sound judgment, and takes ownership of projects.

For more information, contact Kristin (Sudina) Freitag at kfreitag@chesapeakesearchpartners.com or apply below.