Commercial ABS, Credit Research Analyst – Director

At Barings, we are as invested in our associates as we are in our clients. We recognize those who work diligently for us and reward them for personal and professional integrity, communication skills, distinct competencies and expertise in specific strategies, ability to collaborate as a team member and true dedication to the interests of our clients.

We thank you for your interest in joining the Barings team, and invite you to explore our current employment opportunities.

Job Title: Commercial ABS, Credit Research Analyst

Corporate Title: Director

Department: Asset Backed Finance

Location: New York, Charlotte, or Boston

Overview

Barings is seeking a highly motivated and experienced professional to join its ABF (Asset-Backed Finance) team as a Director, Credit Research Analyst specializing in Commercial ABS transactions. The individual will be responsible for leading credit research, analysis, and underwriting of private and public market commercial ABS transactions with a dedicated focus on Transportation (Aviation, Rail), Digital Infrastructure (Data Centers, Fiber), and Esoteric ABS (Franchise, Whole Business) sectors.

This position requires deep expertise in evaluating complex asset-backed structures, conducting comprehensive credit analysis of underlying collateral, and making informed investment recommendations across the capital structure. The individual will work closely with portfolio managers, investment professionals, risk partners, and internal stakeholders to identify attractive investment opportunities, support transaction structuring and execution, and monitor portfolio performance. This role demands strong analytical capabilities, excellent communication skills, and the ability to develop credit views independently while collaborating effectively across a global team.

Key Responsibilities

Credit Research & Analysis

• Lead comprehensive credit analysis and due diligence of commercial ABS transactions across Transportation, Digital Infrastructure, and Esoteric ABS  sectors.
• Evaluate originator and servicer capabilities, business models, operational track records, and credit risk management frameworks.
• Analyze collateral pools, performance data, vintage trends, and stratifications to assess credit quality and projected performance.
• Assess legal and structural elements of ABS transactions, including waterfall mechanics, credit enhancement features, triggers, and covenants.
• Develop independent credit views on asset fundamentals, including technology trends, regulatory developments, competitive dynamics, and business model risks.

Investment Evaluation & Execution

• Screen, underwrite, and support approval of new investments in both public and private commercial ABS markets.
• Prepare detailed investment memos, exhibits, and presentations for internal approval and investment committee processes.
• Perform scenario, sensitivity, and stress analyses to evaluate structural resilience, downside protection, and expected returns across economic cycles.
• Utilize cash flow models and analytical tools to form opinions on future asset and transaction performance.
• Engage directly with issuers, arrangers, bankers, originators, and other transaction stakeholders throughout the investment process.

Portfolio Surveillance & Monitoring

• Monitor ongoing performance of existing investments versus underwritten expectations and identify emerging risks or opportunities.
• Analyze monthly/quarterly collateral and transaction performance reports, including delinquencies, defaults, losses, prepayments, and structural triggers.
• Recommend actions based on asset performance trends, covenant compliance, and structural changes.
• Maintain regular dialogue with issuers and servicers to stay informed on portfolio developments and operational updates.

Research, Thought Leadership & Collaboration

• Author sector research, market commentary, and thematic reports on sector trends.
• Contribute to analytical frameworks, underwriting standards, and investment guidelines for commercial ABS sectors.
• Represent the firm at industry conferences, investor meetings, and client engagements.
• Collaborate with cross-functional partners including portfolio management, risk, operations, legal, finance, and technology teams.
• Mentor and support junior team members, fostering analytical rigor and professional development.

Qualifications

Education & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Economics, Engineering, Mathematics, Accounting, or a rela