Associate, Investment Banking

The Associate Position
The Associate is a key execution role within Palm Tree's Investment Banking practice. Associates manage active transactions, develop financial analyses, and coordinate the day-to-day execution of complex M&A and capital markets processes.

This role is an add-to-staff position supporting Palm Tree's growing investment banking platform. The ideal candidate will thrive in an entrepreneurial environment as the firm continues to institutionalize its banking processes and expand its advisory capabilities.

Palm Tree seeks investment banking professionals who are motivated by accelerated responsibility and a meritocratic culture. This position is well suited for candidates seeking broader exposure across industries and engagement types while gaining meaningful transaction experience.

Who We Are Seeking

• An investment banker with proven success supporting or leading sell-side processes from start to finish
• A qualified investment banker seeking more "reps" and greater exposure across multiple industries and types of engagements
• A motivated and qualified investment banker who feels "stuck" in their current position and is seeking accelerated growth within a meritocratic environment

Core Responsibilities
Transaction Execution

• Support execution of M&A and capital markets transactions from initial marketing through closing
• Manage transaction timelines, diligence workflows, and communication across stakeholders
• Coordinate investor outreach and manage buyer or investor communications throughout the process
• Assist with due diligence coordination and investor data room management

Financial Modeling & Analysis

• Lead development of complex financial models, including M&A, LBO, and financing models
• Analyze financial statements, operating metrics, and valuation drivers

Marketing Materials & Investor Communications

• Lead development of pitchbooks, confidential information memorandums (CIMs), and supplemental marketing materials
• Support preparation of management presentations and investor communications
• Collaborate with senior bankers to craft compelling transaction narratives and positioning

Client Engagement

• Work directly with clients to develop financial assumptions and transaction materials
• Communicate regularly with company leadership and transaction stakeholders
• Provide analytical insights and recommendations throughout the transaction lifecycle

Qualifications

• 3-5+ years of prior investment banking experience with demonstrated deal execution exposure
• Experience supporting M&A and capital markets processes
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint
• Exceptional organizational and project management skills
• Ability to manage multiple assignments in fast-paced transaction environments
• Strong written and verbal communication skills

Candidates should demonstrate a strong work ethic, attention to detail, and the ability to operate effectively within high-performance, client-service teams.

Compensation and Benefits

• Base salary range of $125,000-$175,000, with performance-based bonus opportunities.
• Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Competitive 401(k) program with employer matching contributions.
• Hybrid work environment with access to offices in Los Angeles, Chicago, and New York.
• Unlimited paid time off (PTO).

What to Expect When Applying

Whether this is your first time applying to Palm Tree or you've connected with us before, you are welcome to use this portal to submit an updated résumé, cover letter, or other materials. Our recruiting team will thoughtfully incorporate your most recent information into your existing application profile. And yes-we do read cover letters. In fact, the cover letter is a great place to demonstrate why you're qualified for a position, even if you do not meet all requirements.

Application Confirmation
After submitting your application, you will receive an email confirming that we've received your materials.

Initial Review
Once your application has been reviewed and added to our active candidate database, you will receive a second confirmation email. Timing for this step can vary based on current hiring needs and priorities, so we appreciate your patience.

Note: If a role is marked as an "immediate" opening, the posting will typically outline specific timelines for each stage of the process, including a potential start date.

Screening
If and when a suitable opportunity arises, a member of our hiring team will reach out to schedule an introductory conversation. The timing of this step is demand-driven and can vary.

Interviews
Qualified candidates will be invited into a formal interview process. As with earlier stages, timing may vary depending on hiring priorities and role requirements.

While we do carefully review every application, we are unable to provide individual feedback to all candidates due to application volume. We value transparency and sincerely appreciate your understanding.

Important Notice
Palm Tree is not currently engaging outside recruiters or headhunters for this search. Unsolicited résumé submissions from third parties may inadvertently disqualify a candidate. All interested and qualified candidates should apply directly through this portal.