At a Glance
- Tasks: Analyse financials, build bespoke models, and assess credit risk for SME lending.
- Company: Fast-growing private credit fund based in London with a dynamic culture.
- Benefits: Gain direct exposure to decision-makers and immediate responsibility in a lean team.
- Other info: Ideal for those who thrive in entrepreneurial environments and enjoy independent thinking.
- Why this job: Make impactful decisions and develop practical credit judgement from day one.
- Qualifications: 2-5 years in private credit or structured finance with strong analytical skills.
The predicted salary is between 49500 - 60500 £ per year.
A fast-growing, London-based specialist private credit fund is seeking a technically strong Associate to join its investment team.
The business deploys capital across SME cashflow lending, asset-backed finance, real estate, forward flow, and platform lending strategies.
This is not a traditional institutional environment.
There are no rigid templates or predefined underwriting models—every deal requires independent thinking, bespoke modelling, and genuine credit judgement.
You will join a small, high-performing team where your analysis directly influences investment decisions from day one.
- What Makes This Role Different
- Direct exposure to senior decision-makers within a lean team
- Immediate responsibility for financial modelling and analysis
- Exposure across multiple asset classes
Strong analytical thinking is recognised. Weak analysis is challenged.
Key Responsibilities
- Analyse borrower financials and large, unstructured loan datasets
- Build bespoke Excel models from first principles to assess credit risk
- Identify inconsistencies and challenge borrower assumptions
- Construct default curves, vintage analysis, and roll-rate matrices
- Model SME cashflows, covenant headroom, and downside scenarios
- Assess underwriting methodologies of lending platforms
- Evaluate probability of default using quantitative and qualitative factors
- Translate complex analysis into clear credit recommendations
- Engage with origination channels (e. g. brokers) to support deal flow
- Support relationship management and post-investment monitoring
- Technical Requirements
- This role requires strong modelling capability and intellectual curiosity around risk:
- Ability to build complex Excel models from a blank workbook
- Experience handling large datasets (20k+ rows)
- Knowledge of vintage, cumulative default, and roll-rate analysis
- Ability to reconcile inconsistencies in borrower data
- Flexibility to apply different analytical frameworks across asset classes
- Advanced Excel skills (Pivot Tables, XLOOKUP/INDEX-MATCH, SUMIFS, dynamic modelling)
- Ideal Background
2–5 years’ experience in one or more of the following
- Private credit
- Structured or specialty finance
- Asset-backed lending
- Structured products
Exposure to multiple credit types is highly desirable.
- Analytical and performance-driven
- Entrepreneurial rather than institutional
- Flat structure with high ownership
You will work closely with senior team members and develop practical credit judgement across a broad range of transactions.
Who Will Thrive
This role suits someone who
- Enjoys building rather than operating processes
- Is intellectually curious about credit risk
- Is comfortable making decisions with imperfect data
- Thinks independently rather than relying on templates
- Can move between consumer-style portfolio modelling and SME underwriting
- Has strong commercial awareness (not purely academic)
- #J-18808-Ljbffr
Associate – Private Credit (SME Lending) employer: Cobalt Recruitment
As a Recruitment Manager in the vibrant Construction & Development sector, you will thrive in a dynamic work culture that prioritises collaboration and innovation. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through tailored development programmes and clear progression pathways, ensuring you can achieve your career aspirations while contributing to our collective success. Located in a bustling area, we offer unique advantages such as access to industry events and networking opportunities, making us an exceptional employer for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Associate – Private Credit (SME Lending)
✨Tap into Campus Networks
If you're still in uni, don’t forget to engage with your campus's career services and attend finance-related events. Banks often do presentations and recruitment drives on campus, so put yourself out there and make use of these opportunities to show off your passion for the field.
✨Get Certified
Consider pursuing relevant certifications like the CFA or ACCA while you’re job hunting. They not only beef up your CV but also connect you with professional bodies which can lead to networking opportunities and even job openings in banking and financial services.
✨Connect on Professional Platforms
Join finance-focused groups on platforms like LinkedIn and engage in discussions. This can really help you stand out from the crowd, allowing potential employers to see your knowledge and interest in industry trends. Plus, you might stumble upon job postings shared exclusively within the group.
✨Apply Directly and Be Proactive
Don’t shy away from reaching out directly to firms like Cobalt Recruitment. Use their websites and apply through them, but also consider following up with a polite email to express your enthusiasm. Being proactive can make a huge difference in getting noticed in the competitive financial services sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Associate – Private Credit (SME Lending)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Numbers!:In the banking and financial services world, quantifiable achievements are key. Make sure your CV highlights your grades in relevant subjects, any financial certifications you hold, and specific projects where you've delivered measurable results. Employers love to see how your skills translate into real-world success.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Role:When applying for a full-time position, your cover letter should make a direct connection between your experience and the job description. Don't just state your enthusiasm for finance—dive into how your background in banking or financial analysis sets you apart. Let your passion shine through while being specific about what you can bring to Cobalt Recruitment.
Include Relevant Financial Software Experience:If you've worked with financial modelling tools or software like Excel, SAP, or specific analytical tools during your studies or internships, bring that up! Highlighting your proficiency can really make your application pop and show you're ready to hit the ground running in a full-time role.
Research and Reflect:Before hitting that 'apply' button on Cobalt Recruitment's website, do a little digging. Look up their recent projects, values, and culture. Reflecting their ethos in your application can make a huge difference and show you’re genuinely interested in being part of the team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Cobalt Recruitment
✨Brush Up on Financial Analysis Skills
Make sure you're well-versed in financial concepts and analytical techniques relevant to banking and financial services. Get comfortable with tools like Excel for modelling or financial forecasting, as technical questions in this area are common during interviews with Cobalt Recruitment.
✨Prepare for Case Studies
Expect to tackle case studies that demonstrate your problem-solving skills in real-world banking scenarios. Familiarise yourself with the types of problems you might face—think risk assessments or investment evaluations—and be ready to articulate your thought process clearly.
✨Show Your Passion for Finance
Since this is a full-time position, employers at Cobalt Recruitment will be keen to see your genuine interest in finance. Be prepared to discuss recent industry trends or news articles that excite you, showcasing your enthusiasm and engagement with the field.
✨Network with Industry Professionals
Before your interview, reach out to current or former Cobalt Recruitment employees on platforms like LinkedIn. They'll offer unique insights into the company's culture and the interview process, which can give us a delightful edge in showcasing a good fit for the team.
