ABS Consumer – Associate / Associate Director (NY / Chicago)

Summary/Overview

KBRA (Kroll Bond Rating Agency) is seeking an experienced credit analyst to join our Asset-Backed Securities ( ABS) team is expanding. The ideal candidate will have experience in ABS sectors, either consumer (such as auto loans, consumer loans, credit cards, etc.) or commercial/esoteric (data center, equipment, communications infrastructure, aviation etc.). The candidate may be expected work across asset classes within ABS. Successful candidates will possess an ability to be highly adaptable and show strong critical thinking skills. An Associate/Associate Director within the ABS group holds an integral role on the transaction rating team, engaging in all aspects of the rating process from collateral analysis to report publication.

About the Job:

• Conduct transaction analysis including originator/servicer evaluation, collateral performance and loan pool analysis, modeling and analysis of bond structure, and review of legal structure and documentation.
• Assist in the preparation of credit memoranda and presentation of transactions to rating committees.
• Prepare and contribute to individual transaction reports for publication.
• Assist in the publication of market commentaries related to topical events or research.
• Serve as secondary contact to investors and clients or structuring banks, working under the guidance and direction of senior team members.
• Engage in ongoing surveillance of rated transactions and updating ratings as warranted.
• Attend and participate in seller/servicer due diligence, investor discussions, or industry events (which, in some cases, may require travel).

You will be successful in this role if you have:

• B.A. / B.S. degree in a relevant field of study.
• Minimum of three (3)+ for Associate, five(5)/six (6)+ years for Associate Director of demonstrated experience in credit analysis within the ABS sector at a Rating Agency, Buy-Side Investor, Credit Research, or similar environment.
• Strong Excel skills (excel test may be administered as part of the interview process)
• Strong analytical skills relating to transaction evaluation, including loan credit risk assessment and analysis of asset and bond cash flows.
• Proficient with relevant financial modeling software (e.g. Intex)
• Strong oral and written communications skills (writing sample on request).
• Exceptional attention to detail.
• Ability to take initiative, work independently, and work closely with partners in a collaborative environment.
• Familiarity with Generative AI tools such as ChatGPT for research, data insights, and general productivity is a plus.