Let's begin! AVP-Ratings (Local Governments)

Moody's•Chicago, IL

About The Position

Moody’s is seeking an experienced analytical professional to support its public finance ratings process and market engagement across the Midwest. The role focuses on local government finance and involves developing deep knowledge of assigned local governments, public finance trends, and Moody’s rating methodologies. The position requires strong quantitative analysis as well as sound judgment when evaluating uncertainty, with analytical conclusions communicated primarily through forward-looking written opinions. The successful candidate will manage day-to-day credit analysis for assigned credits, assess individual local governments and rated obligations, apply rating methodologies, and contribute to methodology development. The role also includes participation in rating committees and portfolio reviews; production of research reports and news-driven commentary; engagement with investors, the press, issuers, and other market participants; mentoring junior analysts; and contributing to projects. The analyst is expected to use AI and digital tools to improve processes and analytical output. The Midwestern Local Government Team covers debt issued by cities, counties, schools, and special districts. Team members maintain ratings, analyze new issues, and explain analytical work to market participants and other stakeholders. The position is full-time and eligible for incentive compensation. For US-based roles, the anticipated base salary range is $145,400 to $210,800, depending on experience, education, level, skills, and location.

Requirements

At least 5 years of experience in public finance or a related field, with a focus on the local government sector preferred.
Strong quantitative aptitude and proven analytical skills.
Highly organized, efficient, and detail-oriented, with the ability to multitask and meet tight deadlines.
Excellent communication skills and the ability to explain complex concepts and analytical conclusions clearly and succinctly to diverse audiences.
Knowledge of local government budgeting, accounting, and finance, and familiarity with the economic, financial, and political challenges facing local governments.
Sound judgment and the ability to develop an independent opinion and defend both personal views and consensus-determined Moody’s views.
Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint.
Flexibility to travel to meet issuers and other market participants and attend industry conferences.
Ability to work effectively independently and as part of a collaborative team.
Basic understanding of AI concepts, curiosity about using AI tools to improve processes and efficiency, and willingness to develop awareness of responsible AI practices, including risk management and ethical use.

Nice To Haves

Graduate degree in public policy, public administration, economics, or business.

Responsibilities

Manage day-to-day credit analysis for assigned credits while building deep expertise in local government finance.
Provide in-depth credit analysis of individual local governments and rated obligations, ensuring rating accuracy with guidance from more senior colleagues.
Apply Moody’s rating methodologies consistently and contribute to their development and application.
Participate in rating committees for assigned credits and the sector, contributing to analytical discussions.
Contribute to maintaining the team’s ratings portfolio through broad-based and individually focused credit reviews.
Write in-depth research reports and quick-turnaround, news-driven commentary; identify emerging credit themes and draft analysis with input from senior team members.
Respond to investor and press inquiries, join issuer meetings, and develop external relationships with government representatives, financial intermediaries, and other market participants.
Represent the team at industry conferences and meetings.
Mentor junior analysts and support team development.
Contribute subject-matter expertise to project work and use AI and digital tools to improve processes and analytical output.