The Strategy & Corporate Development Analyst supports mergers & acquisitions, strategic investments, and enterprise growth initiatives. This role provides financial, market, and strategic analysis to support executive decision-making and long-term value creation. The position offers strong exposure to senior leadership and meaningful responsibility across the deal lifecycle.

This position is based at our Corporate Headquarters in Wood Dale, IL, with a planned relocation to the Merchandise Mart (Chicago) in early 2027.

What you will be responsible for: 

• Analyze potential mergers and acquisitions, investments, and strategic initiatives.
• Build detailed financial models and perform valuation analyses.
• Conduct market research, competitive analysis, and industry mapping.
• Support due diligence efforts across cross-functional teams.
• Identify risks, synergies, and financial impact of transactions.
• Assist with integration planning and post-acquisition performance tracking.
• Develop presentations for senior executives and the Board of Directors.
• Maintain tracking tools for active and completed deal activity.

What you will need to be successful in this role: 

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Economics, or related field.
• 2–4 years of experience in investment banking, corporate development, private equity, transaction advisory, or strategy consulting.
• Strong financial modeling and valuation skills.
• Advanced proficiency in Excel and PowerPoint.
• Excellent analytical, communication, and project management abilities.

• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

   

The rewards of your career at AAR go far beyond just your salary: 

• Competitive salary and bonus package
• Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• 401(k) retirement plan with company match
• Generous paid time off program
• Professional development and career advancement opportunities

Physical Demands/Work Environment:
The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
• While performing the duties of this job, the employee may be regularly required to sit, stand, bend, reach and move about the facility.
• The environmental characteristic for this position is an office setting.
• Candidates should be able to adapt to a traditional business environment.
• AAR provides accommodation in accordance with applicable laws through all stages of the hiring process. If you require accommodation for any part of the application and/or hiring process, please advise Human Resources.

Compensation:
The anticipated salary range for this position is $115,000 to $125,000 annually. This range reflects the base salary for candidates who meet the requirements of the role, including experience, education, and location. In addition to base pay, this role is eligible for a bonus. AAR offers a competitive benefits package, including medical/dental/vision/life/and AD&D insurance, 401(k) savings plan with employer match, paid time off and holiday pay, as well as opportunities for professional development and growth.

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