Investment Banking Associate, Defense & Government

Baird•Tysons, VA

19d•$175,000 - $200,000

About The Position

Baird is where investment banking careers gain real traction. Associates take on meaningful responsibility, work closely with senior bankers and clients, and grow in a culture that values performance, collaboration, and long-term success. We are seeking a highly motivated experienced Investment Banking Associate with at least two years of Investment Banking or equivalent experience to join our Defense & Government team in Tysons Corner, VA. Baird’s 20+ person dedicated Defense & Government team is recognized as a leading M&A advisor to the sector. Since 2021, the team has advised on 60 transactions totaling over $28 billion in transaction value. What You’ll Do: Responsibility that shapes your skill. Work that deepens your impact. Play a lead role in executing public equity offerings, mergers and acquisitions, and other strategic financial advisory services across a range of sectors Drive the preparation of company valuations, financial models, marketing materials, and client presentations Contribute to business development efforts through research and analysis Work directly with senior bankers and client executives, gaining insight into leadership-level decision-making Oversee deal execution by directing analysts in their use of AI platforms like Rogo for due diligence and research, while using tools like Power BI to synthesize complex data into strategic advice for clients What You’ll Gain: A team that runs on trust, momentum, and shared values. Build strong relationships with client leadership and C-suite executives through active involvement in complex M&A transactions Take on greater ownership through lean deal teams that offer more responsibility Navigate clear paths for progression with mentorship, visibility, and real opportunity Advance alongside elite, high-performing peers who hold each other to a high standard Collaborate across Baird’s global investment banking platform—500+ banking associates working together to drive results across geographies, sectors, and specialties Grow in a culture that values diverse perspectives, welcomes ambition, and builds success through collaboration and shared purpose What It Takes: We’re looking for people ready to lead with focus and integrity.

Requirements

At least one year of full-time experience in a solution-focused financial or quantitative role
Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a track record of delivering results
Clear communication, strong leadership, and the ability to thrive in a collaborative, high-performing team
Intellectual agility, initiative, and the drive to grow in a fast-paced, client-focused environment

Nice To Haves

Experience with AI tools such as Rogo, CoPilot, and Auxi is preferred
Familiarity with data visualization tools such as Power BI, Tableau, or similar

Responsibilities

Play a lead role in executing public equity offerings, mergers and acquisitions, and other strategic financial advisory services across a range of sectors
Drive the preparation of company valuations, financial models, marketing materials, and client presentations
Contribute to business development efforts through research and analysis
Work directly with senior bankers and client executives, gaining insight into leadership-level decision-making
Oversee deal execution by directing analysts in their use of AI platforms like Rogo for due diligence and research, while using tools like Power BI to synthesize complex data into strategic advice for clients