Senior Associate, Mergers and Acquisitions

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* Job Description:

** The Mergers & Acquisitions (M&A) Senior Associate supports the M&A Manager in identifying, researching, and evaluating acquisition targets across U.S. markets. This role is responsible for executing hands-on market and company research, building supporting analysis, and helping maintain the acquisition target pipeline. This position reports to the M&A Manager.  
** RESPONSIBILITIES
* ** Conduct in-depth research on U.S. markets and industry verticals to support target identification efforts
* Research and profile prospective acquisition targets using public records, industry databases, licensing data, trade publications, and other primary and secondary sources
* Build and maintain market maps, competitive landscapes, and target profiles under the direction of the M&A Manager
* Support the development of investment theses by gathering supporting data, financial information, and market context
* Assist in building and maintaining an organized, up-to-date database of prospective acquisition targets
* Perform preliminary financial analysis on target companies, including revenue, margin, and growth estimates where available
* Prepare research summaries, memos, and presentation materials for review by the M&A Manager and other stakeholders
* Coordinate with corporate resources department heads to support due diligence on prioritized targets
* Help identify and test new data sources, tools, and research methods to improve the efficiency and quality of the team's research
* Travel as needed to support market research efforts
** QUALIFICATIONS
* ** Bachelor's degree required; concentration in business, finance, or economics preferred
* 2+ years of experience in M&A, corporate development, investment banking, private equity, management consulting, or similar research-intensive role
* Demonstrated experience conducting independent research and producing clear, well-organized written work product
* Strong quantitative skills, including comfort working with financial statements and basic valuation concepts
* Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint); experience with industry research databases (e.g., Pitch Book, Capital IQ, or similar) is a plus
* Strong written and verbal communication skills
* Take ownership of research assignments and follow them through to a complete, polished work product
* Approach unfamiliar markets and industries with genuine curiosity
* Manage multiple research efforts simultaneously against deadlines
* Exercise sound judgment in assessing the quality and relevance of research findings
* Communicate findings clearly and concisely, in writing and verbally
* Take initiative in identifying information gaps and proactively seeking answers
* Collaborate effectively with the M&A Manager and cross-functional partners
* Adapt quickly to new markets, industries, and research approaches as priorities shift  In accordance with Virginia Senate Bill 215 (SB 215), the base salary range for this position is:  $77,000.00 - $Compensation in other cities and states may vary. HITT Contracting offers a competitive total benefits and compensation package including performance-based bonuses, premium health care coverage including vision and dental, employer-matched 401(k), wellness reimbursement program, paid holidays and time-off, and other voluntary benefits and leave types.

The determination of salary is based on the candidate’s individual professional experience, qualifications, education, skills, and training.
*** HITT Contracting is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to hiring and developing the most qualified individuals based on job-related experience, skills, and merit. All employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic. We value a respectful, inclusive workplace where everyone has the opportunity to succeed.

HITT Contracting maintains a drug-free workplace, consistent with applicable local, state, and federal laws.**
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