Senior Associate/Delivery Lead - Rating Advisory (IB)- Gurgaon

Acuity Knowledge Partners is seeking a motivated professional to support its Ratings Advisory team. The role involves applying Moody's, S&P, and Fitch methodologies to perform rating analysis, build indicative rating models, assess rating implications of financing transactions, and advise investment banking clients on rating-related matters. The candidate should possess strong expertise in rating agency adjustments, capital structure analysis, rating scenario assessment, and hands-on experience with Moody's, S&P, and Fitch Connect platforms, along with proven client-facing advisory experience. The position is based out of our Gurgaon office.

 Key responsibilities

• Supporting the capital structure and rating advisory team of a global investment bank in preparing rating presentations, rating models, indicative ratings, and rating scenario analyses
• Strong understanding of financial models, cash flow models, LBO models, forecast analysis, and credit ratio analysis
• Experience conducting debt capacity assessments for acquisition finance, leveraged buyouts, refinancing, dividend recapitalizations, capital structure changes, and other strategic transactions
• Working knowledge of debt financing deal life cycle including origination, structuring and execution
• Direct client interaction experience, including advising clients on rating implications, rating improvement opportunities, rating agency expectations, and strategic financing decisions
• Hands-on experience in identifying and applying key rating agency adjustments, including adjustments related to EBITDA, leases, pensions, operating cash flow, debt, hybrid securities, minority interests, and other methodology-driven considerations
• Understanding of different sectors including Energy, Auto, Transportation and Mobility, Healthcare, Industrials, Media and Communications, Technology, Utilities and Power, Real Estate, Gaming, and Leisure
• Knowledge and hands-on experience in preparing industry analyses, company profiles, peer benchmarking, rating pitchbook materials, and senior management presentations

Key competencies

•  3-4 years of experience working with either a rating agency such as Moody’s, S&P, Fitch or Rating Advisory team of an investment bank or boutique firm. Experience in below assignments will be required.
• Strong expertise in conducting rating analysis and credit assessments for large corporates and debt issuances Comprehensive understanding of Moody's and S&P rating methodologies, financial risk and business risk frameworks, and methodology-driven analytical adjustments.
• Proven experience applying major rating agency adjustments and interpreting their impact on leverage, coverage, cash flow, and overall credit quality

• Experience in direct client interaction with a demonstrated ability to advise clients on rating outcomes
• Experience building and reviewing financial models, including cash flow forecast models, LBO models, and rating sensitivity models
• Prior experience using Moody's Ratings Direct, S&P Capital IQ Ratings Direct, and Fitch Connect for credit research, rating analysis, peer benchmarking, and monitoring rating actions
• Should be well versed with Microsoft Excel, Word, and Power Point
• Excellent written and spoken communication skills with extensive experience in Client handling
• Post-Graduation in Finance (MBA, CFA, CA etc.) or equivalent qualification