The primary focus of this position is to assist portfolio managers in evaluating and executing a variety of private market transactions, including private credit opportunities as well as structured products and private equity investments. The individual will be primarily responsible for analyzing the credit worthiness of various private and structured credit issuers, generating investment ideas, and making appropriate buy, sell, and hold recommendations.
Reporting to the Vice President, Investments this individual will join a highly collaborative team responsible for making investments in a variety of sectors and industries. In addition, the ideal candidate will thrive working in an entrepreneurial team environment, be highly self-motivated, disciplined and confident. This individual will exhibit personal integrity, a deep desire to learn, and strong verbal and written communication skills.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• New Investments
  
  • Assist Investments team with performing due diligence on a variety of private market investments including: private credit, structured products, and private equity opportunities.
  • Work with both sell-side and other industry partners to help source and track deal flow and market color.
  • Assist in private market negotiations, including determining structure and deal terms, with potential investment partners and opportunities.
  • Analyze the credit risks/mitigants of target investments to assess the relative value of an investment across private market opportunities.
  • Provide analysis of business models and financial statements of investment opportunities.
  • Prepare investment memos that articulate the merit of an investment opportunity, portfolio fit, and risk/return.
  • Proactively develop and articulate recommendations to both the Vice President of Investments and the broader investment team.

• Portfolio Management
  
  • Perform quantitative and qualitative analysis on specific investments, asset classes, or aggregate portfolios.
  • Assist in presenting findings to credit committee and performing follow-ups.
  • Develop and maintain research tools including models, databases, and spreadsheets.
  • Utilize thorough investigative process involving conference calls, research reports, company visits, industry contacts, and financial analysis to evaluate portfolio positions.

• Other Analysis/Responsibilities
  
  • Work in tandem with Portfolio Allocation/Management Group to ensure investments meet overall portfolio needs.
  • Work with Treasury, Back and Middle Offices to ensure smooth operations of both new and existing investments.
  • Willingly take on additional responsibilities as requested in order to accomplish Company objectives.
  • Support the broader Investment Team and/or other departments on an as needed basis.
  • Actively participates and contributes to the goals and objectives of the Company by working collaboratively and fostering a positive and inclusive work environment.
  • Provide other ad hoc analysis on an as needed basis.

Skills and Abilities:

• Advanced proficiency of Microsoft Office, (including Excel and PowerPoint), and Bloomberg.
• Advanced spreadsheet skills in financial modeling and analysis, as well as knowledge of portfolio strategy, risk analysis, performance review, and investment theory.
• Knowledge of Aladdin, Intex, or other analytical investment software a plus.
• Passion for financial and economic analysis, ability to structure quantitative and qualitative problem-solving approaches.
• Strong interpersonal, writing, and analytical skills.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills.
• Strong and effective communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Demonstrated leadership qualities in a team environment.
• Collaborative, energized by the open exchange of ideas.
• Highly motivated; strong desire to learn.
• Ability to adapt quickly and appropriately within the constant evolution of the company and the industry.

Training or Work Experience:

• Minimum 4 years of experience of principal investing or investment banking experience required.
• Experience working within a regulated environment, preferably life insurance is highly valued and preferred.
• Experience and familiarity in either private credit/leverage credit or esoteric structured products (either buy or sell-side) preferred.

Education:

• Bachelor's degree required.
• Progression toward CFA or CAIA preferred.

Working Conditions:

• On-Site Location: Chicago, IL
• In office expectations: 2-3 days in per week
• Business Travel: Infrequent domestic travel (less than 5% of the time).

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EquiTrust is an Equal Opportunity Employer and participates in the U.S. Federal E-Verify program. Applicants have rights under federal and state employment laws. To learn more, visit https://www.equitrust.com/careers/opportunities/applicant-notices/.