Private Equity Associate

Chicago, IL

Start Date: Immediate / Near-Term

About Arbor Investments

Arbor Investments is a specialized private equity firm focused exclusively on investing in premier companies across the food, beverage, and related industries. Founded in 1999, Arbor has offices in Chicago and Palm Beach and has been recognized as a three-time winner of Buyouts Magazine’s Deal of the Year award.

Arbor takes an active, hands-on approach to value creation. In addition to partnering closely with management teams, Arbor supports its portfolio companies with in-house functional expertise across marketing and branding, human resources, supply chain and operations, legal, IT, accounting and finance, and other key disciplines. The investment team works directly with these resources to help portfolio companies execute strategic and operational initiatives that drive growth and performance.

The Opportunity

The Private Equity Associate will play a key role across the full investment lifecycle, including transaction evaluation, due diligence, execution, financing, and post-close value creation. This is a high-exposure role with meaningful responsibility and direct interaction with senior investment professionals, portfolio company management teams, operating partners, and Arbor’s internal functional experts.

What You Will Do

Review and evaluate new investment opportunities
Build and analyze financial models and underwriting materials
Manage due diligence workstreams and support transaction execution for platform and add-on acquisitions
Participate in financings, refinancings, and sale processes
Support portfolio company and fund initiatives through research, analysis, and execution support
Work with senior leaders, operating partners, and internal functional experts on post-close operational and strategic initiatives
Gain direct exposure to portfolio company strategy and operations through board meetings and strategic planning sessions

What We Are Looking For

Minimum of 2 years of experience in investment banking, private equity, corporate development, or a related field
Prior M&A transaction experience strongly preferred
Food and beverage experience preferred, but not required; a strong interest in the food and beverage industry is required
Strong analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills, with sound investment judgment
Strong financial modeling, writing, communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills
High degree of initiative, ownership, and ability to operate independently in a fast-paced environment
Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, and Word
Finance and/or accounting degree preferred, but not required
Positive attitude, strong work ethic, and eagerness to learn

Why Arbor

This role offers the opportunity to work on a broad range of investing and value creation activities within a specialized private equity platform. Associates at Arbor gain meaningful transaction responsibility, direct portfolio company exposure, and the ability to work alongside experienced investment professionals and operating resources in a highly collaborative environment.

Location

This role is in-person and based in Chicago, IL.

Application Instructions

To apply, please include your resume and preferred start date.

Contact

Nate Garside - Executive Recruiter

Email: garside@arborpic.com

Arbor Investments

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Private Equity Associate