Underwriting Associate

Job Summary:

As an Underwriting Associate, you will work closely with senior underwriters and the broader investment team to assess, evaluate, and execute private credit investments. This role requires a strong understanding of financial analysis, credit risk assessment, and industry trends. The ideal candidate will be detail-oriented, highly analytical, and capable of managing multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.

This is for a top-tier Private Credit firm in Chicago.

Key Responsibilities:

• Underwriting Support: Assist in the preparation and execution of private credit underwriting, including evaluating borrower creditworthiness, financial performance, and industry conditions.
• Financial Analysis: Analyze financial statements, cash flow projections, and creditworthiness of potential borrowers. Create financial models to assess investment risks and opportunities.
• Due Diligence: Assist in conducting due diligence on potential borrowers, including reviewing financial records, legal documentation, and market conditions.
• Risk Assessment: Collaborate with senior underwriters to assess risk levels and identify key risks associated with private credit transactions.
• Documentation: Draft and review internal credit memoranda and loan documentation, ensuring that all terms and conditions are clearly defined and aligned with the credit strategy.
• Collaboration: Work closely with senior underwriters, investment professionals, and legal teams to support the underwriting and closing processes.
• Market Research: Stay informed on market trends, industry sectors, and economic conditions that could impact credit risk or private credit investments.
• Reporting: Prepare reports and presentations for internal and external stakeholders, including investment committees and senior management.

Qualifications:

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Economics, Accounting, Business, or related field. Advanced degrees or certifications (e.g., CFA, MBA) a plus.
• Experience: 1-3 years of experience in underwriting, private credit, investment banking, credit analysis, or related financial roles. Experience with private credit investments is preferred.
• Technical Skills: Strong proficiency in financial modeling, Excel, and financial statement analysis. Familiarity with credit rating systems and loan structuring.
• Analytical Abilities: Ability to assess financial performance, forecast cash flow, and identify potential risks and rewards of credit investments.
• Communication: Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly to internal and external stakeholders.
• Attention to Detail: High attention to detail and accuracy in all work, especially in financial analysis and documentation.
• Team Player: Ability to work effectively in a collaborative environment with senior team members, legal, and other departments.
• Time Management: Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses
• Comprehensive health benefits (medical, dental, vision)
• Retirement plan with company contributions
• Professional development opportunities
• Dynamic and supportive work environment

The Equus Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer and takes pride in maintaining a diverse environment. We do not discriminate in recruitment, hiring, training, promotion or any other employment practices for reasons of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, sexual orientation, marital or veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected status.