Research Associate - U.S. Growth & Core (Technology)

William Blair•Chicago, IL

About The Position

As a Research Associate at William Blair, you'll conduct the fundamental research that shapes how our clients and investment teams understand companies and securities. Working at the direction of senior research analysts, you'll assemble and validate data on quality growth companies, build and update financial models, and analyze industry sectors and securities to identify opportunities. You'll prepare reports, notes, and presentations, visit companies, attend conferences, and build relationships with company executives. Your investment ideas and recommendations reach clients directly and help generate new business for the firm.

Requirements

Bachelor’s Degree required; concentration in Accounting or Finance preferred
1-2 years of work experience within Big 4 or similar public accounting experience preferred
Strong financial analysis and accounting statement analysis skills
Knowledge of data gathering and analysis best practices and methodologies
Strong written and verbal communication skills
Basic knowledge of investment concepts and products with strong desire to learn
Ability to build relationships and collaborate with investment and research teams
Ability to work independently in support of team goals
Proficient in Microsoft Office and industry standard data sources

Responsibilities

Develop detailed knowledge of technology industry and companies and keep abreast of related market developments and news.
Gather and analyze research data related to targeted industry and companies, and maintain accurate, current research databases.
Conduct research analyses on targeted companies, including analysis of financial performance, competitive industry positioning, quality of company management, etc.
Analyze market sectors and trends and conduct financial and accounting statement analyses.
Develop and maintain financial models for revenue and income forecasts, cash flow analysis, balance sheet and quarterly projections.
Prepare industry and company reports, presentations and exhibits to summarize research findings for Research teams.
Host meetings with company executives, sell-side brokers, and third-party research providers.
Document and maintain information for analysis activities.
Assist Research Analysts in identifying and formulating new investment ideas for Portfolio Managers, and recommending securities and companies in one or more industry groups targeted to follow.
Ensure all work activities are in compliance with applicable rules, regulations, policies and procedures.