Strategic Business Analyst II - Data, Insights & Impact

William Blair; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 90,000 - 132,000; Full time

Job summary

William Blair is seeking a Senior Business Analyst II in Chicago to serve as an analytical resource across functions. You will gather information, define objectives, deliverables, and forecast outcomes while presenting findings to stakeholders.

Expect collaboration with department teams to improve processes and deliver accurate analyses. The role requires 2–4 years of BA experience, a related bachelor’s degree, and fluent use of SQL, MS Office, and AI-assisted tools.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree is required.
• 2–4 years of business analysis experience.
• Finance/Asset Management industry experience preferred.
• Proficiency in SQL for data analysis.
• Experience with AI-enabled tools (Copilot, Claude, Cowork).
• Strong written communication and reports to senior leadership.
• Solid knowledge of databases and ability to query data.
• Detail oriented with strong prioritization skills.
• Excellent problem solving and analytical skills.
• Proficiency in MS Office.

Responsibilities

• Provide analytical support to William Blair functions or project teams and ensure deliverables align with policies.
• Work with stakeholders to understand business issues and define objectives.
• Define the objectives, vision, scope, goals and deliverables of initiatives.
• Ensure work products are delivered accurately and timely.
• Develop and maintain subject matter knowledge related to focus areas.
• Gather data and background information; use data to perform analysis and forecasts.
• Surface and present data beyond initial descriptions via research and analyses.
• Create detailed documentation and deliverables for initiative objectives.
• Answer questions and troubleshoot issues related to process and analysis.
• Participate in post-project reviews to identify areas for improvement and communicate findings.
• Identify opportunities for process improvement within strategy and operations.
• Additional responsibilities as requested.

Skills

Data analysis

SQL proficiency

AI tools

Communication

Collaboration

Problem solving

MS Office proficiency

Education

Bachelor’s degree in related field

Tools

Copilot

Claude

Cowork

MS Office

Job description

William Blair is seeking a Senior Business Analyst II in Chicago to serve as an analytical resource across functions. You will gather information, define objectives, deliverables, and forecast outcomes while presenting findings to stakeholders.

Expect collaboration with department teams to improve processes and deliver accurate analyses. The role requires 2–4 years of BA experience, a related bachelor’s degree, and fluent use of SQL, MS Office, and AI-assisted tools.