Cape Town City Centre: Research Analyst – Corporate Finance

Research Analyst (Corporate Finance) Join a growing M&A advisory firm supporting UK SMEs on their growth and exit journeys Remote (South Africa-based candidates welcome) | Competitive salary About Our Client This corporate finance and M&A advisory firm specialises in helping UK SME business owners unlock value, plan for succession, and achieve successful exits. The company takes a collaborative approach, bringing together seasoned advisors, analysts, and marketing professionals to deliver practical, relationship-driven solutions. With national growth ambitions, the firm offers an entrepreneurial environment with real impact and learning opportunities. The Role: Research Analyst (Corporate Finance) This is a foundational role within the Origination & Deal Support team, combining market and company research with analytical and presentation work. You’ll source and validate high-quality data on UK SMEs, develop research materials for campaigns and client meetings, and support live M&A mandates with financial analysis and buyer research. The role sits at the intersection of origination, marketing, and transactionsmaking it ideal for someone looking to build a career in corporate finance with wide exposure across the deal lifecycle. Key Responsibilities Minimum 12 years of experience in research, analysis, or financial services Conduct origination research on UK-based SMEs and decision-makers using platforms such as Companies House and LinkedIn Sales Navigator Build structured datasets and concise profiles with financials, growth potential, and exit signals Draft research packs, presentations, and sector insight reports for Advisor and Partner review Support deal teams with financial modelling, buyer list creation, and acquisition target research Manage databases and ensure accurate data across HubSpot and internal platforms Collaborate with Advisors, Designers, Marketing, and the Deal Researcher to deliver campaigns and support live transactions Provide performance updates and participate in weekly and monthly reporting cycles About You 12 years of relevant research, finance, or data analysis experience Strong analytical and financial modelling skills using Excel or Google Sheets Comfortable working with datasets and market research tools (e.g., Orbis, Beauhurst, PitchBook) Excellent written communication and presentation drafting skills Organised, detail-oriented, and able to manage multiple projects Understanding of macro-environmental models such as SWOT, PESTLE, and Porter’s Five Forces Exposure to corporate finance or M&A is desirable Familiarity with HubSpot or similar CRM systems is a plus Experience collaborating with design or marketing teams is advantageous