Corporate Finance Associate Program

Our Associates work on a variety of transactions, including equity offerings, M&A advisory assignments, private equity placements, and strategic options studies.

Small deal teams and our focus on middle-market, high-growth companies afford Associates the unique opportunity to work directly with senior-level client executives and top-level bankers. Associates assume a critical role in the entire transaction process, including the initial pitch, due diligence, preparing a written prospectus or memorandum, meeting with potential investors/buyers, negotiating key terms, closing the deal and maintaining the client relationship.

William Blair & Company Associates typically begin as generalists and, after two to three years, move into a specific practice area (specialties include Business Services, Consumer, Financial Services, Healthcare, Technology, Financial Sponsors, M&A and Private Equity Placements). Most of our Associates are located in the firm‘s Chicago headquarters. However, the firm also has established Corporate Finance offices in Boston, New York, San Francisco, London, and Shanghai. Corporate Finance Associates typically can advance to the position of Vice President within three or four years, and within another three years may advance to the position of Principal (equity ownership).

William Blair & Company‘s environment is unique in the investment banking profession. While the work is rigorous and demands a high level of commitment, the firm maintains an open, cooperative and collegial atmosphere. Most Associates at William Blair & Company have MBA degrees and can demonstrate strong evidence of academic and professional achievement in previous endeavors, although prior investment banking experience is not required. We look for candidates who are effective at working in a team environment, and who are interested in a long-term career with William Blair & Company.

Recruiting for the class starting Summer 2009 will begin this fall. William Blair & Company will be visiting several campuses, however if we are not visiting your school for recruiting, please submit your resume here.

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