Associate of AI Investment Bank, Industrial

About Rowan

Rowan is an AI-driven succession and M&A advisory firm focused on industrial sectors, serving manufacturers, distributors, contractors, and industrial service providers. Unlike traditional investment banks or brokers, Rowan bridges the gap by providing expert financial and transactional advice tailored for mid-sized companies. After raising $3.3 million in seed funding led by DRW Ventures and other investors, Rowan represents over $250 million in enterprise value and is developing technology to revolutionize lower middle market M&A.

Our Differentiator

Rather than engaging only when owners decide to sell, Rowan partners with business owners years in advance to improve financial reporting, organize data, and prepare for due diligence, resulting in more buyer-ready businesses. This preparation has led to an average valuation increase of over 30% for clients before going to market. Rowan combines long-term advisory with AI tools that reduce manual tasks, enabling bankers to focus on closing transactions and generating business.

Role Overview

The Associate will join directly alongside Rowan’s founders in a hands-on role contributing throughout each stage of sell-side M&A transactions, from preparing due diligence through closing deals. The role also involves collaboration with product and engineering teams on cutting-edge technology to reshape M&A processes. This position offers growth into a deal leadership role with significant responsibilities from the start.

Key Responsibilities

• Facilitate sell-side M&A transactions from initial preparation to deal closing
• Utilize proprietary AI platforms to create marketing materials, identify buyers, complete due diligence, and source new opportunities
• Engage directly with business owners on strategy, structuring, and negotiations
• Develop industry-specific networks among buyers, clients, and private equity firms
• Collaborate with Rowan’s founders on strategic initiatives and firm growth
• Partner closely with engineering and product teams to influence technology development
• Progress toward becoming a trusted lead banker managing client relationships and transactions

Candidate Profile

• Two to five years of experience in investment banking or private equity
• Demonstrated transaction experience within industrial businesses
• Strong skills in valuation, due diligence, positioning, and executing transactions
• Adept at analyzing imperfect or incomplete data to form practical solutions
• Excellent communication skills with confidence in engagements with business owners and sophisticated buyers
• Entrepreneurial spirit aiming to contribute to a fast-expanding firm
• Excited by the opportunity to help develop AI technology transforming investment banking
• Proven work ethic, intellectual curiosity, and a sense of ownership
• Based in Chicago or willing to relocate

Compensation and Benefits

• Competitive salary complemented by commissions and performance bonuses
• Merit-based advancement leading to deal leadership roles
• Participation in equity incentive plans
• 401(k) retirement plan and health insurance stipend
• Substantial responsibilities and exposure to live deals from day one
• Direct mentorship from Rowan’s founders and senior dealmakers
• Opportunity to make meaningful contributions rather than only support roles
• Insight into startup operations and growth at a seed-stage company
• Work-life balance superior to that of traditional investment banking environments

Why Join Rowan?

The industrial sector faces a generational business transfer with limited access to sophisticated M&A advisory. Rowan aims to build a lasting advisory firm tailored for this large market while transforming investment banking through AI and technology from its inception. The team comprises expert bankers, engineers, and operators committed to creating the next generation of investment banking. If this vision inspires you, Rowan welcomes conversations with motivated candidates.