Senior Associate - Blackpeak

Senior Associate - Blackpeak

Blackpeak (an ION company) is seeking a Senior Associate to join our team in New York, Washington DC, or Chicago. This role will primarily support our US offices in conducting and managing English-language reputational due diligence projects. We are looking for bright, inquisitive, and self-motivated individuals with experience in investigative research and risk consulting. The successful candidate will receive comprehensive training and mentoring in industry best practices and advanced research methodologies.

In addition to due diligence work, the role will involve overseeing and contributing to other investigative and bespoke research projects.

• Conduct research and analysis through desktop research, database reviews and interviews
• Produce high quality written reports
• Carry out intensive research (both primary and secondary) and analysis of large amounts of data and then assess accuracy, reliability, and relevance
• Oversee a team of researchers and help manage full lifecycle of research projects
• Support client communications and help manage key accounts to ensure timely, high-quality project delivery
• Collaborate with other cross-functional teams or offices as needed

• At least 2–3 years of experience conducting research projects related to due diligence, investigative research, or compliance assessments
• Extremely strong written and oral communication skills
• Excellent attention to detail; strong editing and proofreading skills
• Proven ability to manage multiple, time-sensitive projects in a deadline-driven environment
• Discretion, good judgment, and the ability to maintain client confidentiality
• Bachelor’s degree or higher; many educational backgrounds are potentially relevant, including journalism, English, international relations, history, communications, philosophy, pre-law, and others
• Familiarity with basic business concepts (e.g. balance sheets, basic accounting, the functioning of capital markets, investment trends, etc.)
• Must have work authorization that does not now or in the future require sponsorship of a visa for employment authorization in the US (i.e., H1-B visa, F-1 visa (OPT), TN visa or any other non-immigrant status)

• Experience managing due diligence or investigation projects, preferably in a client-focused role
• 3–4 years of experience conducting research projects related to due diligence, investigative research, or compliance assessments
• Proficiency with research databases, OSINT tools, and regulatory frameworks (e.g., FCPA, AML)
• Experience conducting source inquiries, site visits, or other HUMINT methodologies
• Advanced education (e.g., Master’s degree) or certifications in relevant fields
• Strong analytical and reporting skills, with the ability to distill complex information clearly
• Proficiency in a second language (e.g., Mandarin, Spanish, Arabic) is a plus
• Familiarity with financial analysis and basic business concepts

The estimated salary range is $85,000 - $95,000. Salary is negotiable depending on experience and skills.

ION adheres to an equal employment opportunity policy that prohibits discriminatory practices or harassment against applicants or employees based on any legally impermissible factor.