Investment Analyst

JOB DESCRIPTION:

Hillcrest Finance, a real estate investment management firm focused on credit solutions, is seeking an Investment Analyst to support the firm’s originations and asset management teams.  The Investment Analyst will participate in the entire investment process from deal origination and research to execution and asset management of new and existing whole loans, mezzanine loans, and preferred equity investments for commercial real estate across property sectors throughout the United States.  The Investment Analyst will work closely with the firm’s executives.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Review and evaluate new transaction opportunities across property sectors and capital structures to determine the quality of the real estate and potential loan structures
• Produce pro forma cash flow analysis and sensitivity analysis using ARGUS and Microsoft Excel
• Conduct in-depth macro- and micro-level market research (including major/metro markets, submarkets, and emerging markets)
• Identify specific credit metrics, risks (including market, real estate, sponsor – financial and execution, exit/refinancing), and mitigants for each transaction
• Assist in the preparation of “green light” memos used in making investment recommendations to senior management
• Conduct property-level due diligence and assist senior originations professionals in underwriting and closing new transactions
• Manage investment opportunity pipeline:  log all opportunities, indicate those investments that meet the firm’s investment strategies, prepare pipeline report for discussion at originations and IC meetings
• Create investment summaries for select pipeline opportunities and completed transactions
• Assist in quarterly asset management reporting and valuations
• Maintain the firm’s track record, which includes modeling the firm’s performance and projections
• Participate in special projects, as needed

REQUIREMENTS:

• Ideal candidate will have three years of related commercial real estate experience focused on real estate finance or acquisitions
• Proficient use of Excel and Argus Enterprise Software for financial modeling, spreadsheet analysis, and underwriting
• Strong work ethic and attention to detail
• Critical thinking
• Strong analytical skills
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced entrepreneurial environment
• Ability to organize and prioritize multiple tasks
• Ability to simplify complex ideas into presentable messages