Associate - M&A Team

Role overview

Jefferies is looking for an Associate to join its London-based M&A team. The team advises clients on strategic transactions such as mergers, acquisitions, divestitures, and broader corporate advisory work, combining senior-level attention, deep sector knowledge, and strong delivery standards.

This position is suited to someone who wants to apply their technical background in a fast-moving environment with substantial transaction volume. The group is recognized for handling assignments end to end across sponsor-led buy-side and sell-side engagements, coordinating intricate workstreams, and partnering closely with senior bankers and clients.

Key responsibilities

• Take part in and help drive the full execution cycle for M&A transactions, from early-stage pitch materials through to completion.
• Coordinate multiple streams of work, including valuation, financial modelling, marketing materials, due diligence, and overall process management.
• Draft and refine transaction documents such as teasers, CIMs, management presentations, and board packs.
• Construct and assess detailed financial models to analyze transactions, test valuation cases, and measure financial outcomes.
• Use strong analytical training to interpret complex financial information and turn it into practical recommendations.
• Carry out market, sector, and company-level research to identify potential targets, track developments, and support strategic advice.
• Work directly with clients to collect inputs, understand their strategic goals, and assist during negotiations.
• Prepare polished client-facing presentations that explain opportunities, valuation findings, and recommendations clearly.
• Collaborate with internal functions such as legal, compliance, and product teams, as well as outside advisers including lawyers and accountants, to keep transactions moving smoothly.

Candidate profile

The ideal applicant should bring at least 3 years of M&A experience, strong financial modelling ability, and advanced analytical thinking. The role also calls for excellent communication and presentation skills, confidence in client-facing situations, and the ability to manage several priorities at once in a high-pressure deal environment. Attention to detail, sound commercial judgment, and critical thinking are also essential.

Why this role

• Work directly with senior bankers on complex, cross-border transactions and gain substantial hands-on deal exposure.
• Join a lean team where meaningful responsibility starts immediately.
• Benefit from a high-flow environment with regular sponsor-driven buy-side and sell-side mandates and strong technical development.
• Build a career path with potential opportunities in mid-market and upper-mid-market private equity as well as corporate development.
• Access a global platform, specialist expertise, and robust execution capabilities.

Equal opportunity statement

Jefferies is an equal opportunity employer and aims to maintain an inclusive workplace. Candidates from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply, and the company is committed to a professional environment free from discrimination and bias.