Investment Banking Associate - Distressed M&A

Investment Banking Associate - Special Situations & Distressed M&A Chicago, IL (Hybrid)Our client is a leading middle-market financial advisory firm that is seeking an Investment Banking Associate to join its growing Special Situations and M&A advisory team in Chicago. This role offers the opportunity to work on complex transactions involving underperforming, distressed, and transitional businesses across a variety of industries.The team advises owners, lenders, investors, and stakeholders on strategic alternatives, mergers and acquisitions, recapitalizations, and other value-maximizing transactions. Unlike traditional M&A assignments, many engagements involve accelerated timelines, dynamic situations, and high-impact strategic decision-making.Key ResponsibilitiesLead and review financial analysis, industry research, valuation work, and transaction-related modeling.Develop and refine sophisticated three-statement operating models, merger models, and valuation analyses.Prepare client-facing materials including confidential information memoranda (CIMs), management presentations, investor materials, and marketing documents.Support transaction execution from initial engagement through closing, including due diligence coordination and buyer/investor outreach.Collaborate directly with senior bankers, clients, legal advisors, lenders, and other stakeholders throughout the transaction process.Conduct market and industry analysis to identify trends, strategic opportunities, and potential buyers or investors.Manage multiple engagements simultaneously while maintaining a high standard of quality and attention to detail.Contribute to business development initiatives and the preparation of proposals and pitch materials. Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Economics, Business, or a related field.Approximately 3+ years of relevant experience in investment banking, transaction advisory, valuation, restructuring, consulting, public accounting, or corporate finance.Specifically, candidates must have at least some Distressed M&A, Tradtional M&A, or closely adjacent experienceStrong understanding of financial statements, accounting principles, corporate finance, and valuation methodologies.Advanced Excel and financial modeling capabilities, including experience building integrated operating and valuation models.Familiarity with discounted cash flow analysis, comparable company analysis, precedent transactions, and other valuation techniques.Exceptional analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.Strong written and verbal communication abilities, with experience creating professional client deliverables.Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment and manage multiple priorities effectively.Demonstrated initiative, professionalism, and a collaborative team-oriented mindset. Why Consider This Opportunity? Exposure to a broad range of special situations, distressed M&A, restructuring, and strategic advisory engagements.Significant client interaction and transaction execution responsibility.Opportunity to work alongside experienced professionals on complex middle-market transactions.Collaborative culture with strong mentorship and career advancement opportunities.Growing platform with an active deal environment and diverse industry exposure. Expected Compensation: Base Salary: $130k - $140k Discretionary Bonus:~$50k - $80k+