Equity Research Analyst - U.S. Small & Mid-Cap Quality Strategy, KAR

Kayne Anderson Rudnick•Los Angeles, CA

22h•$140,000 - $175,000•Hybrid

About The Position

Kayne Anderson Rudnick Investment Management is a Los Angeles–based registered investment adviser managing approximately $60 billion in assets. We employ a high‑quality, low‑turnover, long‑term investment philosophy focused on companies with durable competitive advantages. We are seeking an Equity Research Analyst to join our investment team with a dedicated focus on domestic small- and mid‑capitalization equities. This individual will play a meaningful role in generating original research, shaping portfolio decisions, and contributing to the success of our high-quality-focused equity strategies. The Equity Research Analyst will perform deep fundamental research on small- and mid‑capitalization companies, evaluate business quality and sustainability of competitive advantages, and communicate well‑supported investment findings to Portfolio Managers. The ideal candidate brings a passion for investing, strong financial analysis skills, buy‑side experience, intellectual curiosity, and a mental framework aligned with our quality-first philosophy.

Requirements

Preferably 3+ years of buy‑side equity research experience, ideally covering small- or mid-capitalization companies.
Strong accounting and financial analysis skills.
Ability to synthesize large amounts of qualitative and quantitative information into key investment insights.
Skills in writing research reports and verbally articulating important investment considerations.
MBA and/or CFA designation (or progress toward CFA).
This position requires U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residency (Green Card holder) as a condition of employment. We are unable to sponsor work visas or provide support for OPT/CPT programs for this role.

Responsibilities

Conduct deep bottom‑up fundamental research on U.S. small- and mid‑capitalization companies across assigned sectors
Source prospective investments and maintain ongoing research on current holdings.
Evaluate various business models within an industry and compare and contrast their relative strengths and weaknesses; identify competitive advantages.
Develop knowledge of industry structure, competitive trends, risks, and long‑term drivers.
Analyze and interpret financial statements and appraise valuation.
Relate qualitative business attributes with financial business character.
Prepare written research reports, investment memos, and recommendation summaries.
Present research findings to Portfolio Managers with clarity and well‑supported analysis.
Engage in portfolio review discussions and provide ongoing monitoring of portfolio holdings.
Establish and maintain relationships with company contacts, industry experts, and other relevant research sources.
Visit companies, attend conferences and industry events to deepen understanding of coverage areas.
Work closely with Portfolio Managers and fellow analysts in a collaborative, idea‑driven environment.
Uphold the firm’s research process and contribute to the shared learning of the investment group.
Support special projects and analyses as requested by the Head of Research or Portfolio Managers.