Investment Banking Associate - Mergers & Acquisitions

Placements24; South Africa; Hybrid; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an Investment Banking Associate for our Mergers & Acquisitions team in Gauteng. The hybrid role involves advising corporate clients on strategic acquisitions, divestitures, and complex transactions, with exposure to deal execution and client management.

You will build detailed financial models (LBO, DCF), prepare marketing materials, perform due diligence, and collaborate with lawyers and accountants to ensure smooth closings.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Economics, Business or related field.
• Master's degree or MBA is a plus.
• 3–5 years of experience in investment banking, corporate finance or private equity focusing on M&A.
• Advanced financial modeling and valuation skills.
• Proficiency in Excel, PowerPoint, and financial databases (Bloomberg/Refinitiv).
• Strong accounting principles and financial statement knowledge.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and work under pressure.
• Team-oriented yet capable of independent work.

Responsibilities

• Assist origination and execution of M&A transactions from pitch to close.
• Develop detailed financial models (LBO, DCF, merger models).
• Prepare client presentations, pitch books, and materials.
• Conduct industry research and target screening.
• Manage client relationships and act as transaction lead contact.
• Coordinate with legal, accounting, and advisory teams.
• Oversee junior team members and provide guidance.
• Perform financial, operational, and commercial due diligence.

Skills

Financial modeling

Valuation

Excel

PowerPoint

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Finance/Economics/Business

Master's degree or MBA (plus)

Tools

Bloomberg

Refinitiv Eikon

Excel

PowerPoint

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prestigious investment bank, is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Investment Banking Associate to join their Mergers & Acquisitions (M&A) team based in Tembisa, Gauteng . This hybrid role offers a dynamic blend of in-office collaboration and remote flexibility, allowing you to contribute to high-stakes financial transactions. You will play a crucial role in advising corporate clients on strategic acquisitions, divestitures, and other transformative transactions. This position is ideal for an ambitious professional with a strong financial acumen and a desire to work on complex deals within a fast-paced, results-driven environment. You will gain invaluable experience in deal execution, client management, and strategic financial advisory, contributing directly to the success of our client's diverse portfolio.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in the origination and execution of M&A transactions, from initial pitch to closing.
• Develop detailed financial models, including LBO models, DCF analyses, and merger models, to support valuation and transaction structuring.
• Prepare comprehensive client presentations, pitch books, and marketing materials.
• Conduct industry research and competitive analysis to identify potential targets and strategic opportunities.
• Manage client relationships and serve as a key point of contact throughout the transaction process.
• Coordinate with legal counsel, accountants, and other advisors to ensure smooth transaction execution.
• Oversee junior team members and provide guidance on analysis and deliverables.
• Perform due diligence, including financial, operational, and commercial aspects of target companies.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Economics, Business, or a related quantitative field.
• A Master's degree or MBA is a plus.
• Minimum of 3-5 years of relevant experience in investment banking, corporate finance, or private equity, with a focus on M&A.
• Advanced financial modeling and valuation skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, and financial databases (e.g., Bloomberg, Refinitiv Eikon).
• Strong understanding of accounting principles and financial statements.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and work effectively under pressure.
• Proven ability to work collaboratively in a team environment, while also being capable of independent work.

Benefits

• Competitive base salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Access to cutting-edge financial tools and resources.
• Opportunities for rapid career advancement within a leading financial institution.
• Exposure to a wide range of complex and high-profile M&A deals.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Professional development programs and training.