Associate, Acquisitions – Morgan Stanley Real Estate Investing

About Morgan Stanley Investment Management

Morgan Stanley Investment Management (MSIM) and its advisory affiliates field more than 1,300 investment professionals globally and oversee $1.9 trillion in assets as of March 31, 2026. MSIM is committed to delivering strong long-term returns, exceptional client service, and a broad array of investment solutions to a diverse clientele including governments, institutions, corporations, and individuals worldwide.

About Morgan Stanley Real Estate Investing

As the global private real estate investment management arm of Morgan Stanley, MSREI has been a leading property investor for over 30 years. The firm pursues disciplined and patient strategies spanning global value-add/opportunistic investments, net lease, and regional core portfolios. With 17 offices across the U.S., Europe, and Asia, local teams combine global insights with significant transaction expertise. MSREI manages $58 billion in gross real estate assets worldwide for its clients.

Position Summary

This role is an on-site, full-time Associate position based in Los Angeles, CA. The Associate will join the West Coast Acquisitions team and support a comprehensive set of investment activities across multiple real estate strategies and vehicles managed by MSREI.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead financial analyses and develop presentation materials for potential investment opportunities.
• Manage the due diligence process through deal execution and closing.
• Coordinate and integrate market research and third-party diligence findings.
• Communicate directly with investment sales brokers, joint venture and operating partners, and developers.
• Support and execute initiatives related to business development.
• Conduct thorough research and analysis of real estate markets, sectors, and investment strategies.
• Provide mentorship to junior team members and assist in managing the team's workflow.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree with a strong academic record.
• Between 4 to 6 years of relevant experience in real estate investing, lending, development, brokerage, or investment banking, including leveraged finance or sponsor coverage.
• Advanced skills in real estate financial modeling; proficiency in Argus DCF or Enterprise preferred.
• Strong analytical, quantitative, and technical skills.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Exceptional attention to detail with the capacity to produce precise, high-quality work under tight deadlines.
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and take full ownership of deliverables.
• Self-driven, proactive, and a collaborative team player.

Compensation and Culture

The expected starting base salary ranges from $150,000 to $175,000 annually, determined individually, and is only one component of the full compensation package. Additional remuneration may include commissions, incentive bonuses, discretionary awards, and other long-term incentive plans, alongside competitive benefits programs.

Morgan Stanley is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workforce where hiring, development, and progression are based on talent and merit. The firm values employees from diverse backgrounds and provides substantial opportunities for career advancement. Additional information about Morgan Stanley’s inclusive culture and benefits is available upon request.