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- Tasks: Execute high-profile M&A transactions and build advanced financial models.
- Company: Leading global investment and advisory firm with a strong sponsors franchise.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, exposure to senior bankers, and ownership of projects.
- Other info: Dynamic role in London with excellent career growth and visibility.
- Why this job: Gain direct access to top-tier private equity funds and make impactful decisions.
- Qualifications: 4+ years in investment banking with strong technical skills in LBOs and M&A.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Eaton Recruitment are thrilled to be working with a leading American, global, independent investment and advisory financial services firm.
This is a rare chance to step into a pure Financial Sponsors seat advising top-tier private equity funds on high-profile, sponsor-led M&A across the UK and Europe. The role offers true end-to-end exposure to buyouts, exits, platform builds, and add-ons, with Associates playing a central role in execution rather than supporting from the sidelines.
You’ll work in lean deal teams with direct access to senior bankers and sponsor clients, gaining first‑hand exposure to how elite PE funds deploy capital, assess risk, and drive value creation. The platform is known for its strong global sponsors franchise, consistent deal flow, and culture of ownership—making this an ideal seat for Associates who want responsibility, visibility, and long‑term upside.
The role:
- Execute sponsor‑driven M&A transactions for large and mid‑cap private equity funds
- Build and own advanced LBO, operating, and valuation models
- Prepare PE‑focused client materials, including IC‑style analyses, management presentations, and transaction documentation
- Coordinate complex diligence processes alongside sponsors, management teams, lawyers, and advisors
- Support coverage and origination efforts with financial sponsors, contributing to pitch strategy and relationship development
- Analyse assets and industries through a private equity value‑creation lens
The profile:
- 4+ years of investment banking experience, ideally within Financial Sponsors or heavy sponsor coverage
- Strong technical skill set across LBOs, M&A, and valuation
- Commercial, sponsor‑savvy mindset with a clear understanding of PE decision‑making
- Comfortable engaging with senior investors and C‑suite executives
- Highly organised, detail‑oriented, and resilient under pressure
- Ambitious, entrepreneurial, and motivated by a top‑tier sponsors platform
Based in London, with an expectation of being in the office four days per week.
Associate – Investment Banking, Financial Sponsors Group – London employer: Eaton Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Eaton Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Associate – Investment Banking, Financial Sponsors Group – London
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the investment banking scene. Attend industry events, join relevant LinkedIn groups, and don’t be shy about reaching out to alumni or professionals in your target firms. Building relationships can open doors that applications alone can't.
✨Ace the Informational Interview
Set up informal chats with folks already working in the Financial Sponsors Group. This is your chance to learn about their experiences and get insider tips on what the firm values. Plus, it shows your genuine interest and can lead to referrals down the line.
✨Showcase Your Skills
When you land an interview, be ready to demonstrate your technical skills. Bring examples of your work, like LBO models or valuation analyses, to discuss. This not only highlights your expertise but also gives you a chance to shine in front of the interviewers.
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to apply directly through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re proactive and genuinely interested in joining our team.
We think you need these skills to ace Associate – Investment Banking, Financial Sponsors Group – London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the role. Highlight your investment banking experience, especially in Financial Sponsors, and showcase your technical skills in LBOs and M&A. We want to see how your background aligns with what we’re looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about working with private equity funds and how you can contribute to our team. Keep it concise but impactful – we love a good story!
Showcase Your Analytical Skills: In your application, don’t forget to highlight your analytical abilities. Mention any relevant projects or experiences where you’ve successfully analysed assets or industries. We’re keen on candidates who can think critically and add value from day one!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application directly and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. Let’s get your journey started!
How to prepare for a job interview at Eaton Recruitment
✨Know Your Financial Sponsors
Before the interview, dive deep into understanding the private equity landscape. Familiarise yourself with key players, recent deals, and trends in the market. This will not only show your enthusiasm but also demonstrate your ability to engage in meaningful conversations with senior bankers and clients.
✨Master the Technical Skills
Given the role's focus on LBOs, M&A, and valuation, brush up on your technical skills. Be prepared to discuss and even walk through complex financial models during the interview. Practising these scenarios can help you feel more confident and showcase your expertise.
✨Showcase Your Organisational Skills
The job requires a highly organised and detail-oriented approach. Prepare examples from your past experience where you successfully managed multiple projects or coordinated complex processes. This will highlight your ability to thrive under pressure and keep everything on track.
✨Engage with Real-World Scenarios
Be ready to discuss real-world case studies or transactions you've worked on. This is your chance to illustrate your commercial mindset and how you analyse assets through a private equity lens. It’s all about showing that you can think critically and contribute to the firm's success.