Investment Banking Associate

Smith Arnold Partners; Charlotte (NC); On-site; USD 175,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

Smith Arnold Partners seeks an Associate in the FIG Investment Banking group in Charlotte, NC. The role focuses on executing M&A mandates, building robust financial models, and preparing client materials.

You will work with senior bankers on live deals, conduct market research across subsectors, and contribute to business development. A strong technical foundation and team collaboration are essential for success in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• BA/BS in Finance, Economics, Business or related field required.
• 3–5 years of relevant investment banking experience.
• Strong M&A execution experience is required.
• FIG experience preferred (Insurance, Wealth/Asset Management, Fintech, Banks, Payments).
• Series 7/79/63 licenses preferred.

Responsibilities

• Execute and support M&A mandates from pitch through closing.
• Build and maintain detailed financial models, valuation analyses, and materials.
• Prepare client presentations, pitch books, CIMs and management presentations.
• Conduct company, industry and market research across FIG subsectors.
• Support senior bankers in business development and client origination.
• Participate in due diligence and coordinate with clients and advisers.
• Work with FIG and Insurance MDs on live transactions and assignments.
• Mentor Analysts and contribute to a collaborative team environment.
• Monitor industry trends and transaction activity.

Skills

M&A execution

Financial modeling

Valuation

Client presentations

Deal origination

Education

BA/BS in Finance, Economics, Business

Tools

Excel

PowerPoint

Job description

A leading national middle-market, full-service Investment Bank is continuing to take market share within its Financial Institutions Group. The firm has a strong presence across key FIG sub-verticals, including Fintech, Banks, Wealth Management, Insurance, Asset Management, Payments and Specialty Finance

This is one of the strongest Investment Banking platforms on the street, driven by experienced leadership, a full-service offering and continued growth across FIG. The group is led by a well-known industry leader, with MDs coming from leading middle-market firms, elite boutiques and bulge brackets.

What People Are Saying About the Company:

• Ideal platform for Investment Bankers looking to build a long-term career at a top-tier middle-market firm
• Opportunity to work alongside and learn from some of the best FIG Investment Bankers in the market
• Strong exposure to senior bankers, clients and live transactions

Title: FIG Investment Banking - Associate

Salary: $175,000 - $200,000 + Bonus

Location: Charlotte, NC / Possible other locations Chicago and or NYC

Day to Day - Responsibilities

• Execute and support M&A mandates from pitch through closing
• Build and maintain detailed financial models, valuation analyses and transaction materials
• Prepare client presentations, pitch books, CIMs, management presentations and other marketing materials
• Conduct company, industry and market research across FIG sub-sectors
• Support senior bankers in business development, pitches and client origination
• Participate in due diligence processes and coordinate with clients, lawyers, accountants and other advisors
• Work closely with FIG and Insurance MDs and Directors on live transactions and strategic assignments
• Develop a strong understanding of key FIG subsectors, with an opportunity to become a market specialist
• Help mentor and develop Analysts while contributing to a collaborative team environment
• Monitor industry trends, M&A activity, valuations and relevant market developments
• Take increasing ownership of transaction execution and client-facing responsibilities

Requirements

• BA/BS in Finance, Economics, Business or a related field
• 3-5 years of relevant Investment Banking experience
• Strong M&A execution experience is required
• FIG experience strongly preferred, particularly in Insurance, Wealth Management, Asset Management, Fintech, InsurTech, Banks, Payments or Specialty Finance
• Experience working on both buy-side/sell-side transactions preferred
• Strong financial modeling, valuation and analytical skills
• Excellent PowerPoint and Excel skills
• Ability to manage multiple transactions and work effectively in a fast-paced environment
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively with senior bankers and clients
• Series 7, 79 and 63 licenses preferred
• Strong interest in developing a long-term career within - Financial Institutions Investment Banking