Senior Associate / Principal, Ideation

Members of the Downing Capital Group team are investor-entrepreneurs. We are a new breed of venture capital firm: our team members are business builders, not merely capital providers. Our unique model turns conventional VC on its head: we begin with our business ideas, recruit management teams to execute them, and then capitalize on these ventures. The vast majority of the firm’s capital will be invested in ideas incubated internally.

We are seeking an Associate/Principal to participate in our ideation efforts. In this role, the Associate/Principal will conduct extensive industry research, work with subject matter experts, and collaborate with DCG’s building team to design the investment model, from defining the go-to-market strategies to exploring the competitive landscape. To achieve success, the Associate/Principal will need strong analytical skills, a sharp curiosity for evaluating new business opportunities, and the financial acumen of a seasoned investment professional.

 How you’ll make an impact:  

Ideation:

• Identify and evaluate potential innovation opportunities.
• Perform sector monitoring analysis that contributes to the top-of-the-funnel ideation.
• Collaborate with internal and external experts to generate insights concerning potential industry headwinds, tailwinds, and whitespaces.
• Validate the potential and feasibility of business ideas through intensive data-driven research and analysis.

Leadership and Collaboration:

• Create the execution plan for the new ventures and work closely with the building team to ensure a smooth and effective handover.
• Provide support the colleagues to enhance their effectiveness during the building phase.

Data and Reporting:

• Develop and maintain robust reporting mechanisms to track progress on key initiatives.
• Interpret complex data and provide actionable insights through advanced financial modeling and comprehensive data-driven presentations.

Continuous Improvement & Networking:

• Stay updated on industry best practices and trends to continuously improve strategic execution and operational excellence.
• Foster strong relationships with leading SMEs, founders, and business leaders to develop an extensive network of experts to support ideation and build efforts.

What you’ll bring to the table:

• 4-8 years of experience at a private equity, hedge fund, or venture capital firm. Alternatively, 4-8 years at a leading management consulting firm doing due diligence work for private equity clients.
• Outstanding academic credentials with a bachelor's or master’s/MBA degree.
• New York-based. Willingness to work in a hybrid environment.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret complex data and provide actionable insights.
• Proven ability to interact effectively with C-Suite executives and senior management, demonstrating strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Executor/entrepreneurial mindset with a proactive approach to solving problems.
• Advanced financial modeling skills and proficiency in creating comprehensive data-driven presentations.
• Highly organized and structured with exceptional attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities effectively.
• Proficiency in using Microsoft Office and other relevant software tools.
• A proactive and adaptable attitude in a dynamic work environment with a commitment to continuous improvement.

What we offer:

We offer a competitive compensation package, which includes cash compensation ($160,000 – $200,000), a yearly bonus, an equity plan, and a full benefits package (medical, dental, vision, and 401k).