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Operating Partner Private Equity Jobs in Illinois

InforCapital

Private Equity Associate

Chicago, IL · On-site

$95 - $150/hr

... founding Partners. The Associate will be based in Chicago with a Summer 2027 start date ... operating models, valuation analyses, LBO models, and return scenarios; support transaction ...

Liberty Mutual

Global Private Equity Director

Chicago, IL · On-site

$137K - $257K/yr

We are looking for a Global Private Equity Director to serve as the dedicated client executive for ... Partnering closely with brokers throughout the Midwest, South Central, and West regions, this role ...

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All JobsOperating Partner Private Equity JobsOperating Partner Private Equity Jobs in Illinois

Operating Partner Private Equity information

See Illinois salary details

$45.5K

$97.1K

$138.6K

How much do operating partner private equity jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for operating partner private equity in Illinois is $97,077.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,900.00 and $116,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an operating partner private equity?

Operating Partners in private equity are experienced executives who work with portfolio companies to improve their operations, drive growth, and increase value. Unlike investment professionals who focus on deal sourcing and financial structuring, Operating Partners leverage their industry expertise to help companies optimize processes, implement strategic initiatives, and enhance performance. They play a crucial role in executing value-creation plans set by the private equity firm and often serve as advisors or interim leaders within portfolio companies. Their goal is to ensure that the companies reach their full potential before being sold or taken public.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an operating partner private equity?

To excel as an Operating Partner in Private Equity, extensive experience in executive leadership, financial acumen, and a strong track record of driving operational improvements are essential, often backed by an MBA or similar advanced degree. Familiarity with financial modeling, portfolio management software, and due diligence tools is typically required. Outstanding interpersonal skills, strategic vision, and the ability to influence and mentor management teams help set top performers apart. These competencies are vital for maximizing portfolio company value, ensuring successful exits, and generating superior returns for investors.

What are common challenges operating partners private equity face when driving value creation across portfolio companies?

Operating Partners in Private Equity often encounter the challenge of balancing strategic oversight with hands-on involvement across multiple portfolio companies. They must quickly build trust with management teams, identify key operational improvements, and implement best practices tailored to each business's unique context. Additionally, aligning all stakeholders on growth initiatives and ensuring timely execution while navigating complex change management processes can be demanding. Success in this role requires strong communication, adaptability, and a results-oriented mindset.

What is the difference between Operating Partner Private Equity vs Investment Associate Private Equity?

AspectOperating Partner Private EquityInvestment Associate Private Equity
CredentialsExperience in management, industry expertise, often MBA or similarFinance degree, MBA or CFA often preferred
Work EnvironmentCollaborates with portfolio companies, focuses on operational improvementsConducts financial analysis, due diligence, and deal sourcing
Employer & Industry UsagePrivate equity firms, portfolio companiesPrivate equity firms, investment banks

Operating Partner Private Equity professionals focus on improving portfolio companies' operations, leveraging industry experience. Investment Associates primarily analyze deals, perform financial modeling, and support investment decisions. Both roles are integral to private equity but differ in responsibilities and skill sets.

What are popular job titles related to Operating Partner Private Equity jobs in Illinois?

For Operating Partner Private Equity jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Operating Partner Private Equity jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Operating Partner Private Equity jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Operating Partner Private Equity jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Operating Partner Private Equity job openings:

Operating Partner Private Equity jobs near you
Infographic showing various Operating Partner Private Equity job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $97,077 per year, or $46.7 per hour.

Private Equity Associate

Chicago, IL • On-site

InforCapital, partnership
See more jobs at InforCapital, partnershipexternal

$70 - $110/hr

Other

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

# Private Equity AssociateArbor InvestmentsAssociatePrivate EquityFull-timeLocationChicago, United StatesDate PostedMay 11, 2026RegionIllinoisStay ahead of the marketGet instant notifications when new job openings matching "Private Equity / Associate jobs in Chicago, United States" are published.## About This RoleArbor Investments is a specialized private equity firm focused exclusively on investing in premier companies across the food, beverage, and related industries. Founded in 1999 with offices in Chicago and Palm Beach, Arbor has been recognized as a three-time winner of Buyouts Magazine's Deal of the Year award. The firm takes an active, hands-on approach to value creation, supporting portfolio companies with in-house functional expertise across marketing and branding, human resources, supply chain and operations, legal, IT, accounting and finance.The Private Equity Associate will play a key role across the full investment lifecycle, including transaction evaluation, due diligence, execution, financing, and post-close value creation. This is a high-exposure role with meaningful responsibility and direct interaction with senior investment professionals, portfolio company management teams, operating partners, and Arbor's internal functional experts.Responsibilities include reviewing and evaluating new investment opportunities, building and analyzing financial models and underwriting materials, managing due diligence workstreams, supporting transaction execution for platform and add-on acquisitions, participating in financings and sale processes, and working with senior leaders on post-close operational and strategic initiatives. The associate gains direct exposure to portfolio company strategy and operations through board meetings and strategic planning sessions. #J-18808-Ljbffr

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