Senior Associate, Ankura Capital Advisors

Role Overview

If you're strong at what you do but feel like a small gear in a large machine—building materials that pass through four layers before a client sees them, running processes you'll never close—this role was written for someone like you. At ACA, you'll have meaningful ownership of execution, working closely with MDs on live transactions from start to finish. Client contact is direct—we're looking for someone who is comfortable being on the front lines of a deal, engaging with clients and counterparties as a representative of the firm, not behind the scenes.

AI Requirement

Ankura is an AI-first firm. Microsoft Copilot is embedded across the organization, and ACA is building its deal execution workflows around it. This is not an experiment—it is how we work. We are looking for someone who has already done this. Not someone curious about AI, but someone who has:

• Built repeatable workflows using Copilot, ChatGPT, or comparable tools
• Used AI to materially change how diligence, research, or client materials get produced
• Advocated for—or led—AI adoption at their current firm, formally or otherwise
• Sees this as a feature of the role, not a footnote in the qualifications
• Has the opportunity to help continue building ACA’s AI infrastructure—not just inherit it

Responsibilities

• Lead day-to-day M&A execution (sell-side, buy-side, carve-outs, special situations) under MD direction
• Build and oversee fully integrated financial models—3-statement, LBO, merger/accretion-dilution, scenario and sensitivity analysis
• Own valuation and returns workstreams: trading and transaction comps, DCF, precedent transactions, synergy analysis
• Coordinate business, financial, and operational due diligence; manage data room workflows, trackers, and Q&A processes
• Create and refine pitch and marketing materials: teasers, CIMs, management presentations, board materials, and IC memos
• Use AI tools to accelerate research, diligence review, benchmarking, and content production—and actively contribute to how those workflows evolve at the firm
• Support business development: identify targets and buyers, maintain buyer and sponsor landscapes, support new mandates
• Build and maintain direct relationships with clients, prospective clients, and professional advisors

Qualifications

• 3+ years of investment banking experience with meaningful, hands-on M&A transaction exposure
• Demonstrated experience using AI tools to change how work gets done—workflow building, not just casual use
• Advanced financial modeling, valuation, and analytical skills
• Prior restructuring, debt advisory, or leveraged finance experience preferred
• Exceptional written and verbal communication; executive presence with clients
• Strong Excel and PowerPoint skills; familiarity with Capital IQ, FactSet, or PitchBook
• High degree of integrity, maturity, and attention to detail
• Self-starter who thrives in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment with real ownership
• Bachelor’s degree required; MBA preferred
• SIE 7, 79, and 63 licenses required at time of hire or shortly thereafter