Investment Banking Associate I (Leveraged Finance & Debt Advisory)

Job Description Summary
Raymond James is seeking an experienced investment banking associate to join its newly formed Leveraged Finance & Debt Advisory ("LFDA") group. The LFDA group sits within Investment Banking and is focused on providing debt capital raising and advisory solutions including private debt placements, debt capital markets advisory, institutional term loan Bs, and high yield bonds to financial sponsors and non-investment grade issuers across a variety of industries. The associate will work closely with senior LFDA bankers, manage analyst workstreams, and collaborate with other industry and product groups within the firm to deliver comprehensive solutions.
Job Description
Responsibilities:
Own day-to-day execution of live financing transactions, managing workstreams and timelines from mandate through close
Lead credit analysis and due diligence on prospective borrowers, forming and articulating a view on credit quality, structure, and market receptivity
Review and stress-test financial models prepared by analysts — sources & uses, pro forma capitalization, cash flow modeling, LBOs, and credit statistics — and own model integrity
Draft and oversee preparation of internal screening memos, deal underwriting memos, and external client pitch materials
Oversee production of marketing materials including teasers, investor presentations, confidential information memorandums, marketing term sheets, and lender models
Serve as a primary point of contact for clients, sponsors, and lenders on day-to-day execution matters
Support senior bankers on origination, including financing ideas, market intelligence, and pitch development for coverage and sponsor dialogues
Mentor, train, and review the work of analysts and summer analysts
Skills:
3-5 years in leveraged finance, debt capital markets, private credit/direct lending, restructuring, or leveraged finance credit risk; or an MBA with relevant pre-MBA experience. Middle-market sponsor coverage is a plus
Advanced modeling proficiency: LBO, three-statement modeling, debt schedules, and the ability to review and correct the work of others
Working knowledge of credit agreement mechanics and debt structuring alternatives across the capital structure
Demonstrated ability to manage multiple live workstreams and junior team members simultaneously
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the poise to interact directly with clients and lenders
Proficient in Microsoft Office, including Excel, PowerPoint, and Word
Strong attention to detail, work ethic, and ability to perform under pressure and tight timelines
Education
Bachelor’s (Required)
Work Experience
General Experience - 3 to 6 years
Certifications
Salary Range
$100,000.00-$175,000.00
Travel
Less than 25%
Workstyle
Resident
The total compensation for this position includes base salary or wages, and may include components such as additional compensation (cash or equity), discretionary bonuses, or commissions. This position is eligible for a benefits package that may include medical, dental, and vision; life insurance; critical illness insurance and accident insurance; disability benefits; retirement savings; paid time off (including vacation, holidays, and sick leave); and parental leave. Eligibility for benefits and specific offerings may vary based on position and employment status. To view more details of the benefits offered, visit Myrjbenefits.com.
At Raymond James our associates use five guiding behaviors (Develop, Collaborate, Decide, Deliver, Improve) to deliver on the firm's core values of client-first, integrity, independence and a conservative, long-term view.
We expect our associates at all levels to:
• Grow professionally and inspire others to do the same
• Work with and through others to achieve desired outcomes
• Make prompt, pragmatic choices and act with the client in mind
• Take ownership and hold themselves and others accountable for delivering results that matter
• Contribute to the continuous evolution of the firm
At Raymond James – as part of our people-first culture, we honor, value, and respect the uniqueness, experiences, and backgrounds of all of our Associates. When associates bring their best authentic selves, our organization, clients, and communities thrive. The Company is an equal opportunity employer and makes all employment decisions on the basis of merit and business needs.