Job Specifications
At Stout, we're dedicated to exceeding expectations in all we do - we call it Relentless Excellence (r). Both our client service and culture are second to none, stemming from our firmwide embrace of our core values: Positive and Team-Oriented, Accountable, Committed, Relationship-Focused, Super-Responsive, and being Great communicators. Sound like a place you can grow and succeed? Read on to learn more about an exciting opportunity to join our team.
The Stout ESOP Investment Banking Team is looking for an Associate to handle the day-to-day execution of ESOP Formation, Recapitalization, and Capital Markets transactions. Associates will work under the guidance of product bankers for various transaction and pitch assignments. Successful candidates will be highly technical, detail-oriented, and proficient in content creation and complex financial modeling.
Under the mentorship of seasoned Stout professionals, Associates at Stout will have the opportunity to develop a well-rounded investment banking skill set while gaining significant client exposure.
The ESOP Investment Banking team partners with successful family- and founder-owned businesses to evaluate the advantages of ESOP transactions alongside traditional sell-side options. As the sole financial advisor, we facilitate successful ESOP transactions, typically supported by capital raises led by Stout.
We collaborate with industry bankers and our capital markets team to identify ideal candidates for ESOP exits, often working with owners pursuing a dual-track approach of both ESOP and traditional transactions. Additionally, we assist large, successful companies with established ESOPs in recapitalizations with private capital providers, and support industry bankers in sell-side roles for ESOP-owned companies seeking exits to strategic buyers or private equity.
The role will be responsible for the following:
Create dynamic three-statement financial models, valuation models, and pro forma financial statements incorporating detailed transaction adjustments
Prepare and deliver pitch materials for ESOP formations and recapitalizations, working in partnership with practice leaders throughout the firm and sector leaders within the investment bank to win and execute new mandates
Attend client meetings and present complex deal aspects directly to company shareholders and Board members
Perform extensive financial modeling, structuring, and negotiating of live ESOP transactions
Launch transaction plan and manage day-to-day transaction execution activities, including up-to-date transaction timeline, information requests, data room oversight, financial model upkeep, CIM and Databook preparation, Board and Shareholder presentations, lender lists, funds flow, etc.
Conduct due diligence sessions with clients
Conduct quantitative, economic, and industry research
Communicate with key stakeholders not limited to owners, shareholders, financial institutions, and market competitors
Become SME of ESOP transaction ecosystem and feasibility
Play key leadership role in all aspects of the transaction process
Requirements:
At least 2 years of experience in an investment banking environment with advanced technical skills
ESOP experience and familiarity preferred but not required
Ability to conduct valuation analyses, including Discounted Cash Flow, Leveraged Buyout, Comparable Companies, Precedent Transactions, and Sum-of-the-Parts required
Ability to build diverse financial models from scratch required
Experience working the end-to-end deal execution lifecycle
Prior debt structuring and underwriting experience preferred but not required
Bachelor's degree required (Finance, Math, or Economics preferred but not required)
Advanced proficiency in Excel, PowerPoint, and Word
Strong communication skills, desire to learn, and ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment
Knowledge, Skills & Attributes:
At Stout, we cultivate a collaborative and inclusive culture that values professionals who are driven, entrepreneurial, and team-oriented. Successful Associates possess the following attributes:
Positive and team-oriented mindset
Accountability and reliability
Entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to excellence
Strong relationship-building and interpersonal skills
Exceptional communication and responsiveness
Intellectual curiosity and attention to detail
Advanced analytical and quantitative capabilities
Comprehensive understanding of the sell-side execution process
Mentorship and Career Development:
Stout is committed to fostering the professional growth of its team members. As an apprenticeship-driven organization, Associates benefit from institutional support and the opportunity to work closely with senior leaders, gaining valuable mentorship and career development to help advance their roles in investment banking.
Why Stout?
At Stout, we offer a comprehensive Total Rewards program with competitive compensation, benefits, and wellness options tailored to support employees at eve
About the Company
Stout is a global advisory firm specializing in corporate finance, accounting and transaction advisory, valuation, financial disputes, claims, and investigations. We serve a range of clients, from public corporations to privately held companies in numerous industries. Our clients and their advisors rely on our premier expertise, deep industry knowledge, and unparalleled responsiveness on complex matters. Learn about our Relentless Excellence(r) at stout.com. Stout is a trade name for Stout Risius Ross, LLC, Stout Advisors SA...
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