Corporate Finance Associate

Placements24; Durban; Hybrid; ZAR 700,000 - 1,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work arrangement

Competitive bonus potential

Medical aid & retirement savings

Professional growth opportunities

Vibrant Durban-based culture

Deal flow access

Work-life balance support

Job summary

Placements24 in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, seeks a Corporate Finance Associate to support M&A, capital raising, and advisory projects. You will build robust financial models, evaluate valuations, and contribute to transaction execution while engaging with diverse clients.

The role combines office collaboration with remote flexibility in a hybrid setting, tailored for professionals eager to advance in corporate finance within South Africa's dynamic market.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent in Finance, Economics, Business Administration or related field.
• MBA or CFA considered an advantage for progression.

Responsibilities

• Assist in origination and execution of M&A transactions, managing the deal process from start to finish.
• Develop detailed financial models, including DCF, comps, and precedent transactions.
• Prepare client presentations, pitch books, and information memorandums for fundraising and M&A mandates.
• Conduct industry research and company analysis to identify targets, buyers, or investors.
• Support senior bankers in client meetings, negotiations, and due diligence processes.
• Analyse financial statements to assess valuation and transaction feasibility.
• Coordinate with legal advisors, auditors, and third parties during processes.
• Build relationships with clients, investors, and stakeholders in Banking & Finance.
• Stay informed about market trends and regulatory changes affecting corporate finance.
• Assist in business development and identify new opportunities for the firm.

Skills

Financial modelling

Analytical thinking

Education

Bachelor's degree in Finance, Economics, Business Administration, or related field

MBA or CFA (advantageous)

Tools

Excel

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent investment advisory firm, is seeking an ambitious Corporate Finance Associate to join their growing practice in **Durban, KwaZulu-Natal**. This role offers an exciting opportunity to engage in a wide range of corporate finance activities, including mergers and acquisitions (M&A), capital raising, and financial advisory services for a diverse client base. The successful candidate will be involved in financial modelling, valuation, transaction execution, and client management. We are looking for a proactive individual with strong analytical acumen and a keen interest in corporate strategy and deal-making. This position is ideal for someone looking to advance their career in finance within the dynamic business landscape of **Durban, KwaZulu-Natal**. The role embraces a **Hybrid** work model, offering a blend of office-based collaboration and remote flexibility to support a healthy work-life balance in **Durban, KwaZulu-Natal**.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in the origination and execution of M&A transactions, including managing the deal process from start to finish.
• Develop detailed financial models, including discounted cash flow (DCF) analysis, comparable company analysis, and precedent transaction analysis.
• Prepare client presentations, pitch books, and information memorandums for fundraising and M&A mandates.
• Conduct comprehensive industry research and company analysis to identify potential targets, buyers, or investors.
• Support senior bankers in client meetings, negotiations, and due diligence processes.
• Analyse financial statements and company performance to assess valuation and transaction feasibility.
• Coordinate with legal advisors, auditors, and other third parties throughout transaction processes.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, investors, and other stakeholders in the Banking & Finance sector.
• Stay informed about market trends, economic conditions, and regulatory changes affecting corporate finance.
• Assist in business development efforts and identify new opportunities for the firm.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Economics, Business Administration, or a related field.
• An MBA or CFA charter is advantageous.
• 2-4 years of relevant experience in investment banking, corporate finance, private equity, or transaction advisory services.
• Solid understanding of financial valuation methodologies and corporate finance principles.
• Proficiency in financial modelling using Excel, with the ability to build complex and robust models.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and quantitative skills.
• Excellent presentation, written, and verbal communication skills.
• High degree of professionalism, integrity, and attention to detail.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure, manage multiple deadlines, and adapt to changing priorities in a Hybrid work setting.
• Team player with a proactive attitude and a strong work ethic.
• Must be based in or willing to relocate to **Durban, KwaZulu-Natal**.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package complemented by performance-related bonuses.
• Comprehensive benefits include medical aid and retirement savings plans.
• Significant opportunities for professional growth, skill development, and career advancement within a reputable Banking & Finance firm are provided.
• Experience the vibrant professional culture of **Durban, KwaZulu-Natal**.
• Enjoy the flexibility of a **Hybrid** working arrangement that supports a good work-life integration.
• Access to a network of industry professionals and deal flow in South Africa’s key economic regions.
• Continuous learning opportunities through workshops, seminars, and professional development programs.
• Be part of a dynamic team involved in significant financial transactions.
• The firm prides itself on fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment, ensuring every team member feels valued and motivated.