Funds Ratings - Associate / Associate Director (London)
Kroll Bond Rating Agency UK Limited (KBRA) is seeking an Associate or Associate Director to join its Funds Ratings team in London. This team is responsible for assigning and monitoring credit ratings on various debt instruments issued by funds, closed-end funds, and other investment vehicles. KBRA's growing ratings portfolio includes funds employing diverse asset growth and income generation strategies, such as fixed income securities, private equity, private credit, real estate, and middle market lending. The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience and a strong interest in fund investment and credit strategies.
In this role, the successful candidate will assist with credit research on a variety of funds and investment vehicles, develop rating and analytical tools like cash flow and asset coverage models to evaluate fund debt structures, and prepare internal credit memos and publications. Responsibilities also include participating in diligence meetings with fund management teams to assess their investment acumen and risk management skills, developing and maintaining complex spreadsheets and databases, and collaborating with KBRA experts across various sectors such as project finance, corporate finance, financial institutions, and structured finance. Associate Directors will have the ability to independently lead credit rating processes and research efforts on a variety of debt transactions involving investment funds and related vehicles.
The position requires a bachelor's degree in Finance, Business, Mathematics, or a related field that develops strong analytical skills. Candidates should have four to eight years of experience as a credit analyst, preferably with exposure to fund lending, investing, or structured finance. Essential skills include the ability to work collaboratively in a dynamic environment, effective time and resource management, and strong oral and written communication abilities. Proficiency in advanced Excel, including cash flow modeling, is highly valued, as is attention to detail. Experience with SQL and VBA for database querying is advantageous, and progression towards a CFA designation is considered a plus. Familiarity with generative AI tools like ChatGPT for research and data insights is also beneficial.
KBRA offers a flexible hybrid work schedule, with in-office days on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. The company provides competitive benefits and paid time off, a pension plan, and financial assistance for educational and professional development. An employee referral bonus program is also available.
Joining KBRA means becoming part of a full-service credit rating agency registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission as an NRSRO. KBRA is recognized by various regulatory bodies, including the European Securities and Markets Authority and the UK Financial Conduct Authority. The London office is located at Augustine House, Austin Friars, London, EC2N 2HA, United Kingdom.