Role Overview for Managing Director, Leveraged Finance with a Boutique Bank – Dallas, TX
JRG Partners is proud to represent a premier, rapidly growing boutique investment bank in their search for a Managing Director to lead and build their Leveraged Finance practice in Dallas, Texas.
Our client has established a formidable reputation for providing expert advisory services to middle-market companies, distinguishing themselves through deep industry expertise, senior-level attention on every transaction, and a commitment to achieving exceptional outcomes for their clients. With a highly entrepreneurial and collaborative culture, they offer a unique platform for a senior banker to make a significant impact and share in the firm’s success.
This is a pivotal leadership position created to capitalize on the immense market opportunity within the thriving Dallas and greater Southwest region. The Managing Director, Leveraged Finance will be the cornerstone of the firm’s debt advisory and placement capabilities. This individual will be responsible for the strategic development, origination, structuring, and execution of a wide range of debt financing solutions for private equity-backed and corporate clients. Reporting directly to the Head of Investment Banking, the successful candidate will be an integral member of the firm’s senior leadership team, playing a crucial role in shaping strategy, mentoring talent, and driving the overall growth and profitability of the firm.
This is an exceptional opportunity for a seasoned banker with a strong origination track record and an entrepreneurial spirit to build a market-leading practice on a well-capitalized and supportive platform.
Key Responsibilities of Managing Director, Leveraged Finance with a Boutique Bank – Dallas, TX
The Managing Director will have a broad mandate covering the full lifecycle of client engagement and transaction execution. Key responsibilities will include:
Strategic Business Development & Deal Origination
Proactively identify and cultivate a robust network of relationships with private equity sponsors, corporate clients, family offices, and intermediaries to generate a consistent pipeline of high-quality leveraged finance opportunities. You will develop and execute a comprehensive business development strategy for the Southwest region, leveraging your market knowledge and the firm’s brand to secure new mandates. This includes representing the firm at industry conferences, networking events, and high-stakes client meetings to enhance brand visibility and market presence.
Transaction Structuring and Execution Leadership
Serve as the lead banker on all leveraged finance engagements. You will guide clients and deal teams through the entire transaction process, from initial pitch and due diligence to credit approval, documentation, and closing. This involves structuring complex debt instruments, including senior secured debt, unitranche facilities, second-lien debt, and mezzanine financing for leveraged buyouts (LBOs), acquisition financings, dividend recapitalizations, and refinancings.
Team Building, Leadership, and Mentorship
Recruit, manage, and develop a high-performing team of junior banking professionals, including Vice Presidents, Associates, and Analysts. You will be responsible for fostering a collaborative, results-oriented culture that prioritizes professional growth and excellence. This includes providing real-time coaching, managing staffing assignments, conducting performance reviews, and serving as a mentor to guide the career development of your team members.
Credit Analysis and Risk Management
Oversee the creation of detailed financial models, credit memoranda, and marketing materials. You will apply your deep credit expertise to rigorously assess risk, analyze financial performance, and determine optimal capital structures. You will be the final point of approval on all credit-related analysis and will be responsible for presenting and defending financing proposals to both internal stakeholders and external capital providers.
Market Intelligence and Thought Leadership
Maintain a deep understanding of the current private equity and leveraged finance markets, including pricing, terms, structural trends, and the competitive landscape. You will provide clients with insightful market commentary and strategic advice, positioning yourself and the firm as trusted thought leaders in the debt financing space.
Client and Capital Provider Relationship Management
Act as the senior point of contact for key clients and capital providers. You will be responsible for building and maintaining long-term, trusted relationships with a diverse group of lenders, including commercial banks, direct lenders, credit funds, and other institutional investors, ensuring best-in-class execution and optimal financing outcomes for clients.
Firm-Wide Contribution
Collaborate closely with partners in other groups, such as M&A Advisory and Restructuring, to deliver integrated, comprehensive solutions to clients. You will contribute to the strategic direction of the investment banking division and the firm as a whole, participating in management committees and firm-building initiatives.
Requirements for the Managing Director, Leveraged Finance with a Boutique Bank – Dallas, TX
The ideal candidate will be a proven leader in the investment banking community with a deep specialization in leveraged finance and a portable set of relationships. We are seeking a professional with the following qualifications:
Extensive Professional Experience
A minimum of 15+ years of progressive experience in investment banking, with a significant portion of that time dedicated specifically to leveraged finance, debt capital markets, or financial sponsors coverage at a reputable investment bank, boutique advisory firm, or commercial bank.
Proven Origination Track Record
A verifiable and consistent history of successfully originating and closing leveraged finance transactions. The candidate must demonstrate a portable and active network of relationships with private equity firms and middle-market companies that can be leveraged to generate deal flow.
Deep Technical Expertise
Master-level proficiency in credit analysis, financial modeling, valuation, and the structuring of complex debt instruments. A comprehensive understanding of legal and credit documentation, including credit agreements and security documents, is essential.
Exceptional Leadership Skills
Demonstrated experience in building and leading successful teams. The candidate must possess strong managerial skills, a collaborative leadership style, and a genuine passion for mentoring and developing junior talent.
Superior Communication and Presentation Skills
The ability to articulate complex financial concepts clearly and persuasively to sophisticated clients, capital providers, and internal stakeholders. Must be an exceptional presenter and a skilled negotiator.
Entrepreneurial Mindset
A self-starter with a high degree of motivation and a commercial mindset. The candidate should be excited by the opportunity to build a business and thrive in an environment that is less bureaucratic and more entrepreneurial than a bulge-bracket firm.
Educational & Professional Credentials
A Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Economics, or a related field is required. An MBA from a top-tier business school and/or a CFA designation is highly preferred. Active FINRA Series 79 and 63 licenses are required.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to attracting and retaining top-tier talent by offering a highly competitive and comprehensive compensation and benefits package. This includes:
A Partnership Culture with Significant Earning Potential
We offer a highly competitive compensation package that includes a substantial base salary and a performance-based bonus structure directly tied to your individual and team’s success. Furthermore, this role includes a clear and defined path to equity partnership, allowing you to share directly in the long-term value you help create.
Comprehensive Health & Wellness
Premium medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your dependents with low employee contributions. The firm also offers a robust wellness program, including gym membership reimbursement and mental health resources.
Retirement & Financial Planning
A 401(k) retirement plan with a generous company match to help you build your long-term wealth. Access to financial planning services is also provided.
Generous Time Off and Flexibility
A competitive paid time off (PTO) policy, paid holidays, and a comprehensive parental leave program. The firm supports a healthy work-life balance and offers flexibility where possible.
Commitment to Professional Development
A dedicated budget for continuing education, attending industry conferences, and maintaining professional certifications to ensure you remain at the forefront of the industry.
First-Class Office and Location
A modern, state-of-the-art office located in a prime Dallas location, equipped with the latest technology and amenities. The package also includes a client entertainment budget and potential relocation assistance for exceptional candidates.
How to Apply
If you are a driven, experienced, and entrepreneurial leveraged finance professional ready to take on a leadership role and build a premier practice, we encourage you to apply. This is a unique opportunity to join a dynamic platform and make a lasting impact on a growing firm.
To apply, please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and your track record of deal origination. All applications will be treated with the strictest confidence.
JRG Partners is the exclusive search firm retained for this assignment. For more information about our expertise in this sector, please visit the JRG Partners’ Investment Banking practice area page. We look forward to hearing from you.
