Associate Director (Leveraged Finance Origination)

We’re looking for a proven dealmaker with big ambitions to join our dynamic origination team for our client, a leading provider of flexible financing to UK SMEs. This role offers a clear pathway to Director within the short to medium term, making it an exceptional opportunity for someone currently operating at Associate Director level and hungry for progression.

You’ll be joining a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment where you’ll play a key role in sourcing, structuring, and executing leveraged finance transactions across a wide range of sectors. From deal origination to execution, you'll drive growth, expand your network, and help shape the future of SME lending.

Role duties:

• Originate, structure, and lead new SME lending transactions from £1m to £20m
• Manage the full deal lifecycle through to drawdown, with post-completion transitioned to the portfolio team
• Build and deepen relationships with brokers, advisors, and key market stakeholders
• Represent the company as a trusted voice in the SME finance market
• Mentor and support junior team members, fostering a high-performance culture
• Work closely with internal teams including credit, legal, and portfolio management

What our client is looking for:

• Demonstrated success in leveraged finance
• Preferably a robust origination network with the ability to bring in new deals, though leads will be provided, so an existing network is not essential
• Strong proficiency in credit analysis, deal structuring, and documentation (experience with LMA is a plus)
• Advanced financial modelling and communication skills
• A commercial and entrepreneurial mindset, with aspirations to step into senior leadership
• A collaborative, proactive approach and a passion for creating long-term value