Associate, Alternative Credit

Ares Alternative Credit focuses on asset-based finance (ABF) and tactical asset investing opportunities beyond traditional markets, such as corporate debt, real estate and private equity. This strategy seeks opportunities in large, diversified portfolios, including specialty finance, lender finance, equipment leasing, structured products, net lease, cash-flow streams (e.g., royalties, licensing, management fees) and other asset-focused investments. As of March 31, 2026, Ares Alternative Credit managed approximately $57.3 billion in assets. Ares is a co-founder of the Promote Giving initiative and at least 5-10% of the promote profits of Alternative Credit's flagship Pathfinder family of funds have been pledged to be donated to global health and education charitable organizations.

About the role

The Associate will be directly involved in all facets of the investment analysis process including financial modeling, due diligence, industry research, legal documentation, and portfolio monitoring/management. The role requires a credit investor’s mindset and a successful track record of structuring and negotiating corporate credit and asset-oriented financing solutions. The Associate will interact directly with portfolio company management teams.

Responsibilities

• Thoroughly analyze and underwrite potential investments including reviews of historical financials, development of cashflow projection models, and investment analyses. Apply various qualitative and quantitative methods, including data analysis and scenario analysis, to assess the relative risk and relative value of potential investments.
• Support the deal team throughout the transaction due diligence and closing processes. Collect due diligence materials, utilize information and findings to adjust the underwriting of investments, and coordinate with third-party diligence providers to facilitate the review and closing of transactions.
• Perform company-specific and industry research for each investment opportunity.
• Assist in the development of Investment Committee memos and supporting analysis; ensure the quality, completeness, and accuracy of the analysis that precedes investment recommendations as well as manage the overall delivery of associated materials required for decision-making.
• Work with the asset management team to provide support to and oversight of certain investments in the portfolio.
• Contribute to various team projects to further strengthen or enhance the investment process.

Requirements

• Superior academic achievement at a top-tier undergraduate program is required.
• 3+ years of finance experience with direct exposure to asset finance, corporate credit, and structured products.
• Prior buy-side experience or financial institutions group (FIG) / securitization / structured credit investment banking experience is strongly preferred.
• Sophisticated financial modeling and analytical capabilities.
• Self-motivated and driven; ability to work effectively in a collegial, fast-moving, demanding, and dynamic environment.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills that demonstrate an ability to articulate a clear, concise analysis of investment risk and relative value.
• Evidence of intellectual curiosity, creative problem-solving skills, and adaptability.

Pay

The anticipated base salary range for this position is $130,000.00 - $175,000.00. Total compensation may also include a discretionary performance-based bonus.

Benefits

• Comprehensive Medical/Rx, Dental, and Vision plans.
• 401(k) program with company match.
• Flexible Savings Accounts (FSA) and Healthcare Savings Accounts (HSA) with company contribution.
• Basic and Voluntary Life Insurance; Long-Term Disability (LTD) and Short-Term Disability (STD) insurance.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and Commuter Benefits plan for parking and transit.
• Access to a world-class medical advisory team and a mental health app that includes coaching, therapy, and psychiatry.
• Mindfulness and wellbeing app, financial wellness benefit with access to a financial advisor.
• New parent leave, reproductive and adoption assistance, emergency backup care.
• Matching gift program and education sponsorship program.