Summer Analyst, ESOP - Investment Banking (2027)

Stout • Chicago, IL

5d

About The Position

Stout’s ESOP Investment Banking Team is seeking a Summer Analyst to support the execution of ESOP formation, recapitalization, and capital markets transactions. Working under the guidance of product bankers, the analyst will contribute to transaction and pitch assignments and gain foundational investment banking knowledge through mentorship, structured training, and exposure to client work. The role offers significant exposure to cash flow modeling, capital structure and valuation analysis, and private capital markets.

The team works with family- and founder-owned businesses evaluating strategic alternatives, including ESOP formation and traditional sell-side options. It also assists companies with established ESOPs on recapitalizations with private capital providers and supports sell-side transactions for ESOP-owned companies seeking exits to strategic buyers or private equity. The team collaborates with industry bankers and the capital markets team, including on dual-track ESOP and traditional sell-side processes.

Stout describes its culture as grounded in Relentless Excellence and values including being positive and team-oriented, accountable, committed, relationship-focused, super-responsive, and great communicators. It promotes professional growth through mentorship, ongoing training, employee resource groups, and performance feedback. The position’s estimated compensation range is $20.00–$40.00 per hour.

Requirements

• Pursuing a BA/BS in Accounting, Economics, Finance, or a related discipline.
• Demonstrated interest in investment banking and financial services.
• Familiarity with Excel, PowerPoint, and Word.
• Analytical, quantitative, and detail-oriented mindset.
• Strong communication skills, a desire to learn, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
• Must be eligible to work in the United States without employer sponsorship at the time of hire and in the future.

Nice To Haves

• Strong academic record; a GPA of at least 3.5 is preferred.
• Familiarity with ESOPs.
• Relevant internship or extracurricular experience in investment banking, private equity, or a related field.
• Familiarity with or interest in using AI tools to improve research and analysis.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to client engagements through industry and company research.
• Learn how financial analysis is performed on client businesses, including analysis of financial statements, models, and valuation.
• Assist with client and marketing materials, such as pitch books and presentations.
• Observe and assist the deal team on live transactions and pitch assignments.
• Attend client calls and meetings, where appropriate.
• Participate in structured training, mentoring, and networking opportunities.
• Use AI-enabled tools to support research and deliverable preparation.
• Support execution of ESOP formation, recapitalization, and capital markets transactions.

Benefits

• Comprehensive Total Rewards program with competitive compensation, benefits, and wellness options.
• Flexible work schedules.
• Discretionary time off policy.
• Ongoing training and mentorship.
• Employee resource groups and clear performance feedback.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Intern