Associate

University of Illinois - Urbana, IL

Full-time - Entry Level

Hybrid - Urbana, IL

Educational Services

About the position

The Associate position at Illinois Ventures involves supporting the operations and investment activities of the organization, which focuses on investing in startup and early-stage companies that stem from advanced technologies developed by the University of Illinois community. The role includes a variety of responsibilities such as investment sourcing, due diligence, portfolio management, report creation, and stakeholder engagement, all aimed at fostering innovation and entrepreneurship within the university ecosystem.

Responsibilities

• Identify and assess early-stage venture capital investment opportunities in high-growth companies.
• Leverage university networks to source potential deals.
• Foster relationships with external entities and industry partners to expand deal flow.
• Assist with all stages of deal execution, including due diligence and financial modeling.
• Develop detailed investment memos outlining due diligence findings and projected returns.
• Create and manage valuation models for portfolio companies.
• Support ongoing monitoring of portfolio companies and prepare quarterly reports for Limited Partners.
• Maintain reports and records related to company financings and valuations.
• Oversee the firm's fellowship program and facilitate educational programs.
• Act as a liaison between the firm and various stakeholders within the university ecosystem.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in business, finance, economics, science, or engineering relevant to technology-based entrepreneurship.
• MBA or other relevant advanced degree preferred.
• Three to five years of relevant experience, preferably with advanced technologies or early-stage ventures.
• Deep understanding of the venture capital ecosystem and investment processes.
• Excellent financial and analytical skills, including experience in developing complex financial models.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to build relationships with diverse stakeholders.
• Knowledge or experience in organizing and building high-tech start-up businesses.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience working with advanced technologies and/or early-stage ventures is preferred.
• Creative problem-solving skills.

Benefits

• Hybrid work environment with four days in the office per week.
• Opportunities for professional development and mentorship.