Associate 2026
ASSOCIATE 2026
Private Equity Consulting
JOB DETAILS
Investor Group Services (IGS) is seeking highly motivated undergraduates with strong research, analytical, and quantitative skills from any major to apply for the Associate role.
Associate (Full-Time)
- Start Date: Ideally Fall 2026 (flexible)
- Eligibility: Seniors graduating in 2026 or recent graduates
- Profile: Typically includes some professional work experience (internships or full-time) after or during undergraduate studies
- Practice Areas: Commercial Due Diligence (CDD), Pricing Strategy and Go-to-Market (GTM) Strategy
- Work Location: Boston, MA (Hybrid)
ABOUT IGS
IGS is a trusted advisor supporting investors and business leaders through transactions, growth and portfolio value creation initiatives. As a boutique advisory firm that works with private equity firms, strategic acquirers, and their portfolio companies, we help our clients assess investment opportunities across most major sectors by providing them with the data-driven insights and analysis they need to make investments in middle market companies and industries.
IGS supports clients through: M&A Due Diligence, Sell-side Industry Analysis, Growth Strategy, Go-To-Market (GTM) Strategy, and Pricing Strategy.
- Buy-side commercial diligence on mission critical investment issues (addressable market, growth, competition, voice of customer (VoC) for private equity & corporate acquisitions.
- Sell-side industry reports to assist owners, management, and their advisors/investment bankers in preparing a company for sale.
- Assisting portfolio company management in realizing value through accelerated organic growth, buy and build acquisition strategies and targeted quick strike value creation.
- Advising clients on market entry, sales and marketing alignment, channel strategy, and customer segmentation to enhance market penetration and revenue growth.
ROLE OVERVIEW
As an Associate, you will be a part of a collegial and entrepreneurial environment. Our work is fast-paced and provides opportunities for rapid skill and knowledge development. Associates gain experience across a broad set of industries while working on a case team with two to eight team members. This role takes on a high level of responsibility in the work and client presentations.
Key Responsibilities
- Design and conduct market research to answer critical client questions, such as:
- How is the company positioned relative to competitors?
- How do customers perceive the company versus alternatives?
- What are the most promising opportunities for expansion or improvement?
- How large is the market, and what is its growth trajectory?
- What drives market growth and profitability?
- Prepare analyses, synthesize findings, and deliver actionable insights to clients
- Collaborate with team members to create high-impact presentations for senior executives and investors
What You’ll Learn at IGS
Associates gain a well-rounded skill set through hands-on project work, including:
- Conducting market sizing, growth, and competitive analyses
- Developing client-ready presentations and executive interview guides
- Leading and managing primary research teams
- Building proficiency in Excel, databases, and financial modeling
- Presenting findings in team and client settings
- Strengthening teamwork, communication, and leadership skills under tight deadlines
Why IGS?
- Exposure to a broad range of industries and business challenges
- Opportunities to develop expertise in private equity consulting
- A culture that values collaboration, intellectual curiosity, and professional growth
- Clear career progression for high performers; many Associates also pursue top MBA programs after their tenure
Individuals interested in evaluating business strategies, assessing investment opportunities, and assuming a high level of responsibility will find the IGS Associate role exciting and challenging.
WHAT WE LOOK FOR
Interests & Mindset
We seek candidates who are intellectually curious, driven, and excited about working in a collaborative environment, with interests in:
- Assessing investment and growth opportunities for private equity firms and corporate clients
- Gaining an in-depth understanding of a wide variety of industries
- Conducting primary and secondary research to better understand markets
- Creating complex analyses to answer clients’ key questions
- Synthesizing quantitative and qualitative results to be presented to clients
- Assuming a high level of responsibility by managing primary research teams
- Working in a dynamic, collegial setting
- Living and working in Boston (IGS Associates rarely travel)
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree required (Class of 2026 or recent graduates)
- Strong academic record (GPA 3.5+ preferred)
- Professional work and/or internship experience is required
- High proficiency in Excel, Word, and PowerPoint is a plus
- Leadership and/or management experience is a plus
- Exceptional research, analytical, and quantitative skills
- Ability to work independently and in teams in a fast-paced environment
- Quick learner, self-starter, and hands-on contributor
- Clear, concise verbal and written communication skills
- Intellectual curiosity and a drive to solve complex business problems
BENEFITS
Professional Development
Upon joining the firm, Associates participate in a hands-on orientation program. More seasoned members of the firm provide an overview of the case process from start to finish, including designing and conducting research, data analysis, and Excel and PowerPoint training.
Ongoing Training
In addition to “on-the-job” training, the firm delivers training sessions throughout the year, led by members of the management team and more experienced team members. Topics cover skill development areas including market modeling and more complex analyses, software tools tips and tricks, research strategies, and presentation skills.
Peer Mentorship Program
IGS pairs new Associates with a peer mentor from the previous year’s Associate class to provide practical, real-time guidance and training.
Development Assessments
Associates receive frequent, informal feedback on their progress and development. These assessments provide coaching and actionable suggestions for the improvement of an individual’s skill and career development.
Compensation & Benefits
- Competitive base salary and performance-based bonus
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
- 401(k) retirement plan with employer contribution
- Paid time off and company holidays
- Professional development opportunities and mentorship
- Collaborative, collegial work environment in the heart of Boston
- And more!
Additional Information
IGS sponsors employees for H-1B visas but requires STEM OPT (Optional Practical Training) work authorization.