Associate Director Debt Advisory - Frankfurt

Nielen Schuman is a leading independent corporate finance advisory boutique in the Benelux. Established in 2002, the firm has extensive experience in providing corporate finance advisory and execution services to a broad range of medium to large-sized business owners, corporates, institutions, management teams and investors. Our services include mergers & acquisitions, strategic advisory, capital raising, capital restructuring and related advisory services. Nielen Schuman is the market leading debt advisory firm in the Benelux for private equity.

As part of our continued growth strategy, we are expanding our footprint into the DACH region, with the ambition to establish a dedicated presence in Germany. This expansion represents a key strategic priority and offers a unique opportunity to be at the forefront of building a new platform within an established and highly reputable firm. At Nielen Schuman, we provide truly independent advice, fully aligned with the interests of our clients. Our approach is tailored to the complexity of each situation, combining deep market insights with execution excellence. This has resulted in long-term client relationships built on trust, collaboration and a deep understanding of our clients’ needs. 

Our team consists of high-performing professionals with a down-to-earth and entrepreneurial mindset. We value intellectual curiosity, diversity of thought and the confidence to challenge conventional approaches. We offer exposure to a wide range of industries and transactions in a dynamic, international deal environment, while fostering a collaborative culture focused on personal and professional growth. 

The Role

We are seeking an experienced Associate Director to join our Debt Advisory team, with a strong focus on the DACH region and Germany in particular. In this role, you will not only be a key driver of transaction execution but also play an instrumental role in establishing and growing our German presence, including contributing to building a local team and network. 

As an Associate Director, you will take a leading role in deal teams, working closely with senior dealmakers and clients. You will be responsible for managing day-to-day deal execution, guiding junior team members, and contributing to both client delivery and business development initiatives.

You will be involved in all phases of transactions, including origination, structuring, due diligence, negotiation and closing. In addition, you will support the development of our DACH strategy, helping to identify opportunities, build relationships with key market participants and position Nielen Schuman as a leading advisor in the region. 

Key Responsibilities 

• Supporting clients in arranging acquisition financings, refinancings, recapitalisations and restructuring processes 

• Developing optimal financing structures and assessing a broad range of funding alternatives 

• Leading day-to-day project management and coordinating with clients, lenders and other advisors 

• Preparing and negotiating term sheets, reviewing financing documentation and overseeing transaction execution through to closing 

• Contributing to business development efforts, including client pitches and expanding the firm’s presence in the DACH region 

• Building and maintaining relationships with lenders, investors and other key stakeholders in Germany and the wider DACH market 

• Mentoring and coaching junior team members and contributing to the development of the team 

• Actively contributing to the build-out of the German office and team, supporting the firm’s long-term growth strategy in the region 

What Will Make You Successful 

• A master’s degree in finance or equivalent  

• 5–8 years of experience in debt advisory, leveraged finance, structured finance or investment banking 

• Strong knowledge of financing structures, LMA documentation, accounting principles and financial modelling 

• Excellent analytical, project management and interpersonal skills 

• A proactive, entrepreneurial mindset and strong commercial drive 

• Fluency in English and German language skills are required given the DACH focus 

  What We Offer 

• A non-hierarchical, collaborative and entrepreneurial working environment 

• Significant responsibility and direct exposure to clients and senior stakeholders 

• The opportunity to play a key role in the expansion into the DACH region and the establishment of a German office 

• Focus on personal and professional development 

• The opportunity to work on complex, high-profile transactions within a supportive and close team environment 

• A competitive compensation package, including bonus eligibility