What You'll DoWe are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Corporate Development Analyst to support our Corporate Development team in sourcing, evaluating and executing acquisitions. This role is ideal for an early-career professional with 1-3 years of experience in investment banking, transaction advisory, corporate development, private equity, public accounting or consulting who wants broader, hands-on exposure to the full M&A lifecycle, from origination through close. This role reports to the Director, Corporate Development.
Market Research & Target Identification- Conduct proprietary research and leverage secondary research to identify potential acquisition targets across defined capabilities, industries and geographies.
- Build and maintain target lists using databases, industry reports and other research tools.
Proactive Outreach- Draft outreach emails and messages to prospective companies.
- Support coordination of initial calls and meetings with targets.
Financial Analysis & Modeling- Build, update and maintain financial models and other quantitative analyses under the guidance of senior team members.
- Prepare summary profiles of target companies, including financial metrics, strategic fit, benefits and risks.
- Support valuation and transaction evaluation work.
Transaction Support & Due Diligence- Support cross-functional due diligence by coordinating requests, tracking workstreams and organizing findings.
- Organize and manage virtual data rooms and diligence request lists.
- Help draft investment theses and summarize diligence findings for leadership review.
- Assist with transaction materials, including offer documents, process trackers and internal approval documents.
- Support closing activities and early integration planning.
Data Management & Reporting- Track outreach activity, deal status and responses in Salesforce CRM.
- Maintain accurate records of company profiles, contact details and engagement status.
- Support preparation of pipeline reporting.
Strategy & Market Insights- Monitor industry trends and the competitive landscape.
- Support strategic planning and other growth initiatives through research, data gathering and analysis.
Collaboration- Work closely with senior team members and firm leadership to refine sourcing strategies and advance active opportunities.
- Partner with service line leaders and functional teams, such as IT, People & Culture and Finance, to support diligence and integration.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Who You AreQualifications- Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business, Economics or a related field.
- 1-3 years of experience in an analytical environment, such as investment banking, transaction advisory, corporate development, private equity, public accounting or consulting.
- Working knowledge of fundamental finance and accounting concepts, with exposure to financial modeling and valuation.
- Advanced proficiency in Excel and PowerPoint.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to organize and process large amounts of data from multiple sources.
- Detail-oriented and organized, able to manage multiple priorities on short deadlines, and willing to learn and take feedback.
- Demonstrated ability to handle highly confidential and sensitive information with discretion.
- Prior exposure to the M&A lifecycle is a plus.
- Experience working in Salesforce CRM is a plus.
- Ability to travel as needed.
What You'll Gain- Direct exposure to firm leadership on live acquisitions, with visibility into how deals are sourced, evaluated, negotiated and closed.
- Close mentorship from experienced M&A professionals, with the opportunity to take on increasing responsibility.
- Practical skills in research, financial analysis, outreach, due diligence and pipeline management that translate across finance and strategy roles.
Estimated Base Range: $75,000 - 95,000
*Base compensation offered to candidates are determined based on factors such as candidate's relevant skillset, experience, licensure, and certifications, as well as job responsibilities, geography, market considerations, and organizational needs. At Cohen & Co, we don't stop at setting ourselves apart by offering competitive base compensation. As part of our 'great people first' foundational principle, our firm offers a comprehensive and competitive Total Rewards package that allows each employee to design a package that best suits their needs and goes beyond standard options, including time off outside of your standard PTO to recharge and give back to the community, annual discretionary merit increases and bonuses, talent development resources to tap into growth opportunities.
