Private Equity Principal

Selby Jennings; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 100,000 - 155,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Performance-based bonus structure

Comprehensive benefits package

Opportunity for professional growth

Collaborative and inclusive work environment

Job summary

A leading investment firm in Chicago is seeking an experienced Principal to shape and execute the investment strategy. This key role encompasses due diligence, financial modeling, and strategic collaboration while driving value creation in a dynamic portfolio. Ideal candidates will have a strong background in private equity or investment banking, with an entrepreneurial mindset and exemplary communication skills. A collaborative work environment promises growth and professional development.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 10 years of experience in private equity, investment banking, or management consulting.
• Proven ability to lead and manage transactions from inception to closing.

Responsibilities

• Lead due diligence efforts, financial analysis, and market research for potential investments.
• Develop investment theses and conduct financial modeling.

Skills

Financial modeling

Due diligence

Valuation

Communication

Strategic thinking

Education

Bachelor's degree in finance, business, or related field

MBA preferred

Tools

Financial analysis software

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

A Chicago-based private investment firm with a strong track record of creating value for investors and portfolio companies is actively seeking an experienced Principal to join its growing team. Specializing in lower middle-market investments across a range of industries-particularly within outsourced, mission-critical B2B services-the firm is committed to fostering growth, innovation, and long-term sustainability. The team employs a hands-on, collaborative approach, combining entrepreneurial leadership with committed capital to drive strategic transformation and operational excellence.

As a Principal, you will play a key role in shaping and executing the firm's investment strategy. You will work closely with senior leadership across the full investment lifecycle-from sourcing and diligence to portfolio management and value creation. This position offers a unique opportunity to influence the future direction of the firm while making a meaningful impact on the success of its portfolio companies.

Responsibilities:

• Lead due diligence efforts, financial analysis, and market research for potential investments.
• Develop investment theses, conduct financial modeling, and assess the operational potential of target companies.
• Work closely with portfolio companies to drive value creation, including strategic planning, performance improvement, and operational efficiency.
• Collaborate with the senior leadership team to refine the firm's investment strategy and evaluate new market opportunities.
• Build and maintain relationships with industry professionals, advisors, and other key stakeholders.
• Support fundraising efforts and interact with investors, presenting investment opportunities and results.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in finance, business, or related field; MBA preferred
• A minimum of 10 years of experience in private equity, investment banking, or management consulting.
• Strong financial modeling, due diligence, and valuation skills.
• Proven ability to lead and manage transactions from inception to closing.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.
• A strategic thinker with a strong entrepreneurial mindset.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
• Proficiency in financial analysis software and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Competitive salary and performance-based bonus structure.
• Comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, and retirement plans.
• Opportunity for professional growth and advancement within a dynamic and rapidly growing firm.
• A collaborative and inclusive work environment.
• Exposure to a diverse portfolio of industries and investment opportunities

Seniority level

• Seniority level

  Director

Employment type

• Employment type

  Full-time

Job function

• Job function

  Finance

• Industries

  Venture Capital and Private Equity Principals

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