At least two years of experience in investment banking or private equity.
Strong academic record from a leading institution.
Highly motivated with a strong work ethic and attention to detail.
Strong research, financial modeling, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
Responsibilities
Evaluate investment opportunities through company and industry research.
Support due diligence, financial modeling, and deal structuring for transactions.
Monitor portfolio performance and contribute to strategic initiatives.
Collaborate with colleagues, portfolio-company leaders, and external advisors.
Develop investment judgment and take on increasing responsibilities over time.
Benefits
Hybrid work schedule with in-office days and remote flexibility.
Exposure to senior investment professionals and leadership teams.
Opportunities for professional growth and increased responsibility.
Potential for a secondment in the UK.
Full Job Description
About the Role
Baird Capital is seeking an Associate to join the Global Fund investment team within our private equity business. Baird Capital is the direct private investment group of Robert W. Baird & Co. ("Baird") and invests in growing B2B technology and services businesses.
The Associate will support the full investment lifecycle, including evaluating new opportunities, conducting due diligence, executing transactions, and supporting existing portfolio companies. The role provides exposure to senior investment professionals, portfolio-company leadership teams, and internal and external advisors. Responsibilities and ownership are expected to grow as the Associate demonstrates readiness to take on additional responsibility.
This position follows a hybrid schedule, with Monday through Thursday in the Chicago office and Friday remote. The anticipated start date is Summer 2027.
The Impact You'll Make
Evaluate Opportunities: Screen investments, conduct company and industry research, and assess key value drivers and risks.
Execute Transactions: Support due diligence, financial modeling, valuation, deal structuring, and investment committee materials.
Portfolio Management: Monitor performance, track key metrics, and contribute to board materials, strategic initiatives, and add-on acquisitions.
Collaborate Across Teams: Work with Baird colleagues, portfolio-company leaders, and external advisors throughout the investment lifecycle.
Grow as an Investor: Build investment judgment and take on greater responsibility over time, with potential opportunities for a UK secondment.
What You'll Bring to Baird
Highly motivated with a strong work ethic, sound judgment, and consistent attention to detail.
Able to manage multiple priorities and work effectively both independently and collaboratively.
Strong written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills, with confidence presenting to senior audiences.
Ability to build effective relationships with colleagues, portfolio-company teams, and external advisors.
Strong research, financial modeling, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
At least two years of experience in investment banking or private equity.
Strong academic record from a leading institution.
Compensation and Benefits
Base salary range of $120,000 to $130,000.
Significant bonus and profit-sharing opportunity.
Compensation and bonus are commensurate with experience, individual performance, and firm profitability.
Additional information is available in the Total Rewards at Baird summary.
