Description

Title: Managing Director - ESOP

Location: Chicago or New York

About the Firm

We're partnering with a nationally recognized middle‑market corporate finance advisory firm known for guiding privately held companies through significant ownership and capital structure transitions. With offices across key U.S. regions, the firm has earned a reputation for thoughtful client service, analytical depth, and long-standing relationships with founder‑owned businesses.

The firm specializes in ESOP advisory, corporate valuation, capital strategy, fairness opinions, and broader ownership transition consulting. Its culture is collaborative, mission‑driven, and highly focused on helping business owners achieve both strategic and personal goals.

Job Summary

This senior leadership role is ideal for a seasoned advisor with deep expertise in ESOP structuring, ownership transition planning, and middle‑market corporate finance. The Managing Director will lead client engagements from initial assessment to transaction execution, develop and expand referral networks, guide strategic practice initiatives, and mentor the next generation of advisory talent.

The role is suited for a leader who thrives in a collaborative, analytical environment and is motivated by helping business owners navigate complex, highly personal transition decisions. Experience advising founder‑led or privately held businesses is essential.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead ESOP transactions from initial feasibility assessment through closing
• Advise business owners on succession planning, capital structure alternatives, and long‑term transition strategies
• Manage relationships with attorneys, trustees, lenders, accountants, and other ESOP ecosystem partners
• Originate new engagements through established networks and targeted business development strategies
• Guide junior team members and foster talent development across the advisory team
• Collaborate with firm leadership on strategic growth initiatives and thought leadership

Requirements

• Extensive experience advising privately held companies on ESOP transactions, valuations, and ownership transition strategies
• Strong network within the ESOP community, including trustees, ESOP attorneys, lenders, and CPA firms
• Demonstrated ability to oversee end‑to‑end ESOP processes, including feasibility, structuring, due diligence, financing, and closing
• Excellent client‑facing and communication skills, with the ability to simplify complex financial and structural concepts
• Proven leadership ability and a commitment to coaching and developing junior professionals

Qualifications

• Minimum 10 years of corporate finance advisory experience, ideally with significant ESOP or ownership transition exposure
• Bachelor's degree required; advanced degree or relevant certification (CFA, ASA, MBA, or CEPA) preferred
• Known for professionalism, analytical rigor, and integrity
• Strong team orientation with a passion for educating clients and building long-term relationships