Now Hiring - Robert W. Baird and Co. Incorporated - Vice President, Business Development in Chicago, IL

Full description of the position

Baird Capital Baird Capital is seeking a Vice President of Business Development to drive deal origination efforts and enhance the firm's relationship network with investment banks, intermediaries, and business owners. This individual will play a critical role in identifying and sourcing investment opportunities, expanding Baird Capital's presence in key sectors, and collaborating with the investment team to implement our investment strategy. The ideal candidate has a proven track record of deal sourcing in private equity, investment banking, or M&A advisory, as well as deep industry relationships and strong communication skills. Learn more about us here -Baird Capital. As a VP, Business Development your key responsibilities will be: * Deal Sourcing & Origination: * Develop and execute a proactive origination strategy to identify and source venture, growth equity and buyout opportunities within Baird Capital's target industries. * Build and maintain relationships with investment banks, M&A advisors, deal intermediaries, and family offices to generate high-quality proprietary deal flow. * Drive direct outreach efforts to business owners and executives, positioning Baird Capital as a preferred investment partner. * Track and analyze market trends, transaction activity, and competitive landscapes to refine sourcing strategies. * Relationship Development & Management: * Cultivate and expand relationships with investment banks, brokers, financial sponsors, and industry professionals to strengthen Baird Capital's market presence. * Manage the business relationship between investment banks and Baird Capital for both buy side and sell side relationships including working with the deal team to during buyside processes, and articulating reasons for progressions or declines. * Develop a deep understanding of the firm's investment thesis and articulate it effectively to external stakeholders. * Represent Baird Capital at industry events, networking functions, and conferences to enhance visibility and deal flow. Brand & Thought Leadership: * Strengthen Baird Capital's brand positioning in the market by proactively leading the development of thought leadership initiatives, white papers, and marketing campaigns. * Build Baird Capital's brand awareness by presenting at external events including conferences and panel discussions. Leverage Baird's global platform and relationships to uncover cross-border investment opportunities. What makes this opportunity great: * Strong internal collaboration with both the PE and Venture teams, providing a dual structure that allows for a diverse range of experiences. * Autonomy to build and execute a long-term vision. * Compelling careers working side-by-side with the best in the business. * Unique culture that values diverse backgrounds and perspectives while emphasizing teamwork and a strong sense of partnership. What we look for: * 5+ years of experience in business development, deal origination, private equity, investment banking, or related fields. * Established network within investment banks, M&A intermediaries, and corporate executives. * Strong understanding of private market deal processes, valuation methodologies, private equity investment structures, and industry dynamics. * People orientated and extroverted personality; willingness to reach out and conduct hundreds of external meetings per year. * Prior experience working with and maintaining a CRM, and with private equity data/software platforms is preferred. * Ability to take ownership of and present on goals and activities. * Excellent communication, negotiation, and relationship-building skills. Self-starter comfortable working in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment. * Ability to travel frequently to events is required. * Bachelor's degree in finance, business, economics, or a related field. Compensation Information: * $200-275k annual salary * Bonus potential of up to $100-150k with upward potential as experience increases with the team * Compensation and bonus are commensurate with experience, performance, and/or office profitability Additional benefits include: * Medical/Dental/Vision * B/Well programs * Competitive bonding leave * HSA Contribution * FMLA * Employee Assistance Program * Ten paid holidays and competitive PTO package * Life and disability insurance * Retirement - 401k match and profit-sharing * Tuition Reimbursement Learn more about Baird's unique additional benefits here LI-RE1 Commitment to Inclusion & Diversity Baird is committed to inclusion & diversity for our clients, our associates and the communities where we live and work. This commitment stems from our culture of integrity, genuine concern for others and respect for the individual. We view inclusion & diversity as an ongoing journey - one of shared responsibility, continuous improvement and a focus on progress. We invite you to join us as we work together to foster an environment where diversity unites rather than divides us.