FT MBA Associate: Investment Banking

FT MBA Associate: Investment Banking (Software M&A) Redwood City, CA About AQ Technology Partners AQ Technology Partners is a boutique investment bank focused exclusively on the software ecosystem. We provide high-touch M&A and financial advisory services to leading software companies and their investors. Our deep sector expertise, collaborative culture, and commitment to excellence enable us to deliver thoughtful, value-driven outcomes for our clients. Why AQ Technology Partners At AQ, you will be part of a close-knit team where your work directly impacts clients and outcomes. Our structure means exposure to senior leadership and live transaction experience from day one. We value initiative, intellectual curiosity, and a team-oriented mindset and we invest in the professional growth of every team member. Join us to gain the technical foundation, deal experience, and mentorship to start a successful career in investment banking within one of the most dynamic market segments - Software Investment Banking. Role Overview As a full-time Associate, you will play a central role in the execution of M&A and growth capital transactions within the software sector. Working closely with senior bankers and clients, you will gain experience across all aspects of deal execution, from financial analysis and valuation to client strategy, due diligence, and negotiation. Associates at AQ are expected to take ownership of key analytical workstreams, manage analysts, and contribute to business development initiatives. This position offers a fast-paced and intellectually challenging environment designed to accelerate your career trajectory in software investment banking. Location: Redwood City, CA Compensation: Total salary of U.S.$170,000 (less applicable payroll taxes, withholdings, and deductions) paid in semi-monthly installments Key Responsibilities Support senior bankers in advising software/technology clients and financial sponsors on strategic M&A, private equity, and growth equity transactions Lead detailed financial modeling and valuation analyses, including DCF, LBO, public comparables, and precedent transaction analyses Prepare comprehensive client materials such as confidential information memoranda, management presentations, board materials, and pitch decks Conduct company, market, and competitive research to inform transaction strategy, positioning, and buyer engagement Oversee data room preparation and management, coordinate due diligence processes, and liaise with clients, legal advisors, and counterparties to ensure seamless transaction execution Manage and mentor analyst staff, reviewing analytical work and presentation materials to ensure precision, consistency, and strategic insight Partner with senior bankers to originate and develop new business opportunities across the software/technology ecosystem Contribute to AQ’s collaborative, high-performance culture through leadership, initiative, and active team engagement Qualifications Current MBA student with expected graduation in Spring 2026 2–4 years of prior professional experience in investment banking, private equity/venture capital, management / strategy consulting, or corporate finance (FP&A, Corp Dev, etc.) Demonstrated excellence in quantitative analysis, financial modeling, and strategic problem solving Strong academic record and leadership experience Exceptional written and verbal communication skills Highly organized, detail-oriented, and capable of managing multiple projects in a fast-paced environment Ability to thrive in a dynamic, entrepreneurial environment and work collaboratively in a lean team Deep interest in software, technology, and M&A #J-18808-Ljbffr