Client Relationship Specialist – Investment Banking (FSG Business Development)

Baird is a leading global investment bank with more than 545 banking associates across the world. We provide corporations, entrepreneurs, private equity and other financial sponsors with in-depth market knowledge and a broad range of advisory and financing solutions. Since 2020, Baird has completed nearly 760 advisory transactions, representing $353 billion in transaction value, and 391 financings, raising over $163 billion. Committed to being a great place to work, Baird has been recognized as a

We are seeking a talented and motivated individual to work with the Financial Sponsor Group (FSG) within Global Investment Banking. This person will play an integral role in providing analytical and deal support between Global Investment Banking’s industry and product teams and the FSG bankers on mergers and acquisitions, public offerings and other financial advisory services we provide to our clients. In addition, the position will require the preparation of client presentations and company research to support new business generation with Baird’s private equity clients. This person will perform duties in support of the senior members of the Financial Sponsor Group. Activities and duties require the development of an understanding of investment banking (including the sell side mergers & acquisitions process), the private equity industry and a high level of organization, expertise and experience in planning and prioritizing tasks. The ideal candidate must have the ability to work in a team-oriented environment, have excellent verbal and written communication skills, knowledge of financial accounting and the ability to deal well with peak workloads. Finally, the candidate should be comfortable providing additional hours of support to the FSG team and the investment banking department outside of normal business hours.

As a Client Relationship Specialist, you will:

Work closely with transaction execution teams throughout the pitch and engaged deal process to provide information and insights on private equity firms that have been recommended for sell-side engagements, tracking deal milestones involving private equity clients and providing private equity relationship buyer behavior analysis.

Prepare internal and external reports and presentation materials in relation to Baird, the Global Investment Banking group, FSG and/or private equity relationships.

Support FSG new business generation by helping the groups’ senior banker(s) introduce opportunities and encouraging ongoing dialogue between investment banking industry and product teams and potential private equity clients.

Receive, initiate and/or follow-up on client communications. Be comfortable in supporting the development of relationships with investment professionals at private equity firms, including managing relationships with firms not covered by a senior FSG banker.

Ability to tolerate peak workloads, to deal with constant interruptions and to maintain flexibility and composure in a high volume, high intensity, hectic environment. Must be able to handle heavy workload for a number of Global Investment Banking projects simultaneously and prioritize assignments accordingly. Availability to work outside of normal business hours, including some weekends, is required.

Interact closely with industry and product teams to 1) identify potential transaction opportunities for private equity firms and the portfolio companies they own, 2) track and monitor the Investment Banking department’s various interactions with portfolio company targets and 3) proactively solicit feedback from FSG and industry bankers regarding new and previously identified transaction opportunities and identify the next steps to be taken to secure a transaction engagement. Also facilitate relationships with these internal teams to gain insights about their practices and continue to build best-in-class practices within investment banking.

Monitor daily investment banking industry publications for developments involving private equity clients and the portfolio companies they own.

Perform other duties as assigned.

What makes this opportunity great:

Opportunity to work directly with Director/MD level without layers in between

Fast paced environment that will enable you to grow as a professional

Unique culture that values diverse backgrounds and perspectives while emphasizing teamwork and a strong sense of partnership

Opportunity to work with industry leaders - since 2010, Baird's Financial Sponsor group has played an integral role on nearly $130 billion worth of equity and M&A transactions.

What we look for:

Bachelor’s degree that includes at least one Accounting class is required. 2-5 years of previous experience in a financial services or professional services organization is preferred

The ideal candidate will possess a strong work ethic, a demonstrated record for excellence and have the ability to function equally well in both a team setting and on a self-directed basis.

Must be able to work with internal and external clients, including directly reporting to and communicating with senior banker(s) in other Baird offices on a daily basis via email and telephone.

Must be detail-oriented and recognize errors in numbers, spelling, grammar and punctuation; must demonstrate good follow-through skills.

Thorough working knowledge of Microsoft Office, with an emphasis on Microsoft Excel and Microsoft PowerPoint is required. Must also be very skilled in the use of various internet information data providers and have demonstrated an ability to undertake research projects.

Strong critical thinking, analytical and communication skills required.

Compensation Information: 

Min: $75,000 - Max: $100,000 Annual Salary 

Bonus Eligible 

*Compensation and bonus are commensurate with experience, performance and/or GIB’s profitability

The Baird Difference

In addition to a strong culture that is focused on health and well-being, our organization offers competitive total compensation packages and unique benefits including:

Hybrid work options

Periodic Sabbaticals during career

Protected Friday night & Saturday

Shareholder opportunities 

Mandatory paid time off (PTO)

Robust 401k match and profit-sharing contribution

Commitment to Inclusion & Diversity

Baird is committed to inclusion & diversity for our clients, our associates and the communities where we live and work. This commitment stems from our culture of integrity, genuine concern for others and respect for the individual. We view inclusion & diversity as an ongoing journey – one of shared responsibility, continuous improvement and a focus on progress. We invite you to join us as we work together to foster an environment where diversity unites rather than divides us. .