Junior Associate, Business Development

Job Description:

Junior Associate, Business Development

Chicago, IL (Hybrid)

Corporation for Interest Rate Management (CIRM)

About CIRM:

CIRM is a specialist advisory firm focused on interest rate risk management across equipment finance, aircraft leasing, and real estate. For more than 40 years, we have advised senior executives on managing interest rate volatility through tailored hedging strategies.

We are hiring a Junior Business Development Associate to join our Chicago office, working closely with a senior advisor based in London and supported by the Chicago team. This is an entry-level role designed for someone early in their career who is eager to learn and build a long-term path in advisory and financial markets.

The Role

This position supports business development and client engagement while providing hands-on exposure to how senior-level advisory relationships are built and maintained. The role follows an apprenticeship-style progression—beginning with research and support, moving into shared responsibility, and over time developing toward independent ownership of relationships.

While the initial focus will be on the equipment finance industry, you will gain exposure to additional verticals as your experience grows. Due to the nature of the hands-on learning and mentorship involved in the first year, this role will be primarily in-office during that time.

What You'll Do

• Research companies, senior decision-makers, and market trends
• Build and maintain a high-quality CRM and targeted prospect lists
• Prepare briefing materials for client and prospect meetings
• Participate in live client and prospect calls and meetings
• Support outreach efforts, follow-ups, and pipeline tracking
• Learn how interest rate risk affects investment decisions and outcomes
• Gradually take on direct outreach, conversations, and client responsibility

What This Role Offers

• Structured training in a specialized area of finance
• Close mentorship from senior advisors
• A relationship-driven environment focused on trust and long-term outcomes
• Clear room for professional growth
• A professional sales environment that values trust-building and quality over volume

This Role Suits Someone Who

• Is a self-starter
• Is naturally curious and committed to continuous learning
• Is organized, detail-oriented, and process-driven
• Works hard, exercises patience, and values long-term progress
• Communicates clearly, listens well, and picks up on nuance and tone
• Has strong emotional intelligence and can adapt to different executive personalities
• Is interested in markets, finance, and how businesses manage risk
• Is confident, receptive to feedback, and grounded—without ego or defensiveness
• Is fluent in English and comfortable operating in senior-level conversations

Compensation & Progression

• Base salary:
  $60,000–$65,000 (Year 1)
• Commission on self-sourced business
• Clear path to increased responsibility and earning potential

This role is a strong starting point for someone seeking a credible, long-term career in the financial advisory space rather than a short-term sales position.