Analyst, ESOP Valuation & Opinions (New York, Chicago)

At Stout, we’re dedicated to exceeding expectations in all we do – we call it Relentless Excellence ®. Both our client service and culture are second to none, stemming from our firmwide embrace of our core values: Positive and Team-Oriented, Accountable, Committed, Relationship-Focused, Super-Responsive, and being Great communicators. Sound like a place you can grow and succeed? Read on to learn more about an exciting opportunity to join our team.

Analysts in the ESOP group at Stout perform analyses in various contexts, such as fairness opinions, employee stock ownership plans (ESOPs) and corporate planning purposes. Within the ESOP Practice, a majority of the assignments will involve performing equity valuations and complex analyses for privately-held companies in connection with ongoing ESOPs, leveraged buyout transactions, and other transaction activity.

At Stout, you are engaged in real work right away.

Analysts at Stout have the opportunity to gain client exposure and improve their technical skills while working under experienced professionals. Following training, analysts will have the ability to take on as much responsibility as possible given each individual skill set while operating across four offices and under strict client deadlines.  

What You’ll Do

• Conduct in-depth industry, market, and company research to identify, evaluate, and support assumptions, benchmarks and conclusions;
• Analyze and interpret complex financial statements, identifying trends, risks, and value drivers that impact the valuation outcome;
• Prepare due diligence questions and evaluate supporting documentation to validate financial, operational, and market assumptions;
• Develop and analyze detailed financial models (Discounted Cash Flow, Guideline Public Company, and Merger and Acquisition);
• Exercise discretion and independent judgment in selecting appropriate valuation methodologies and key assumptions;
• Participate in client or management meetings providing substantive input on valuation methodologies, assumptions and conclusions; and
• Create comprehensive deliverables and supporting analyses, including presentations, analysis packets, and written narratives that are submitted for review by our senior level professionals and delivery to our clients.

The Analyst will be part of a firm where the culture and exceptional client service is inspired from leadership down. Analysts have significant opportunities for growth and advancement across Stout’s practice groups and offices. Analysts also interact with senior level professionals on a regular basis and have the opportunity to interact with clients on a more frequent basis over time.

Qualifications:

• BA/BS/MA/MS degree (required).
• Preferred coursework in Accounting, Economics, Finance, or related discipline.
• Minimum cumulative G.P.A. of 3.0 or higher.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Excel, PowerPoint, Word).
• Understanding of financial and economic theory, as well as basic accounting concepts.
• Exceptional organizational and time management skills with capacity to manage multiple complex projects and competing priorities in a deadline-driven environment.
• Strong analytical, verbal, technical and written skills with ability to interpret complex financial data and synthesize findings into clear, actionable insight.
• Superior communication and interpersonal skills, including ability to present complex information and build strong relationships with colleagues and clients.
• Must be eligible to work in the US, without employer sponsorship, at the time of hire and in the future.

How You’ll Thrive:

• Take ownership of significant workstreams and high levels of responsibility to contribute meaningfully to client engagements.
• Collaborate effectively with colleagues and clients to solve complex tasks while building strong relationships.
• Demonstrate analytical rigor and meticulous attention to detail in all aspects of the role.
• Exhibit a strong work ethic and entrepreneurial mindset, contributing to both personal and organizational growth.
• Leverage structured training, mentorship, and networking opportunities to develop professionally and achieve your long-term professional growth and career goals.

Why Stout?
At Stout, we offer a comprehensive Total Rewards program with competitive compensation, benefits, and wellness options tailored to support employees at every stage of life.

We foster a culture of inclusion and respect, embracing diverse perspectives and experiences to drive innovation and success. Our leadership is committed to inclusion and