The Private Equity Associate plays a critical role in sourcing, evaluating, and executing investment opportunities while managing portfolio companies.
This position requires strong financial modeling skills, deal execution expertise, and the ability to leverage cutting-edge investment technologies to drive value creation in South Africa's growing private markets.
Key Responsibilities
- Deal Sourcing & Due Diligence
- Identify and evaluate investment opportunities across sectors (mining, fintech, renewable energy)
- Conduct industry research and competitive landscape analysis
- Perform commercial due diligence (market sizing, growth potential)
Financial Analysis & Modeling- Build LBO (Leveraged Buyout), DCF, and merger models
- Analyze historical and projected financial statements
- Assess investment returns (IRR, MOIC, cash-on-cash)
Transaction Execution- Prepare investment memoranda for Investment Committee
- Coordinate legal due diligence with external counsel
- Assist with deal structuring (equity / debt instruments)
Portfolio Management- Monitor portfolio company performance (KPIs, EBITDA growth)
- Support value creation initiatives (operational improvements, add-on acquisitions)
- Prepare quarterly performance reports for investors
Investor Relations & Fundraising- Assist with fund marketing materials (PPM, DDQs)
- Prepare performance analytics for LPs (pension funds, DFIs)
Technology & Data Analytics- Utilize DealRoom, Datasite for virtual data rooms
- Leverage Capital IQ, PitchBook, Preqin for market intelligence
- Apply Python / R for advanced investment analytics
Required Skills & Competencies
Technical Skills
- Advanced Financial Modeling (3-statement, LBO, M&A)
- Valuation Methods (DCF, public comps, precedent transactions)
- Data Analysis Tools (Power BI, Tableau, SQL)
- Deal Execution (term sheets, SPA negotiation)
- Sector Expertise (mining, financial services, healthcare)
Soft Skills
- Analytical Rigor – Strong quantitative abilities
- Commercial Acumen – Understanding business drivers
- Communication – Presenting to senior partners
- Resilience – Managing complex deals under pressure
Qualifications & Certifications
Mandatory: Bachelor's degree in Finance, Economics, Accounting (Hons preferred); 2-4 years in investment banking, management consulting, or Big 4
Preferred: CFA (Level II+) or CA(SA)