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University Associate, Disputes & Economics - Valuation & Transaction Advisory

Ankura · Chicago, IL · $50,000–$120,000 a year · Full time

Posted Sep 23, 2026 · We last checked this listing on Oct 6, 2026

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Likely interview questions for this role

Written from this job description, not a generic list. Each one notes what the interviewer is really checking.

About your past

Most projects here start with a blank slate. Tell me about a time you had to figure out how to approach a problem with no template.

What they are checking: Whether they can structure open-ended work, which the posting describes as the norm.

Tell me about a report or paper where you had to summarize complex analysis for a reader.

What they are checking: Whether they can write reports that synthesize analysis clearly, a core duty in the posting.

Why are you interested in disputes and transaction work rather than audit or banking?

What they are checking: Whether they have a thought-out reason for the path, which predicts how long they will stay engaged.

How do you handle feedback that requires you to redo a lot of work?

What they are checking: Whether they take review comments well, since associates rework analyses often as facts develop.

What would you do

How would you research an industry you know nothing about for a valuation project?

What they are checking: Whether they know where to find reliable data and how to turn research into usable assumptions.

You notice a number in a client document doesn't tie to the financial statements. What do you do?

What they are checking: Whether they have the attention to detail and judgment to flag discrepancies that could matter in litigation.

About the work

Walk me through the three main approaches to valuing a business.

What they are checking: Whether they know the income, market and asset approaches well enough to start contributing to analyses.

How would you build a simple discounted cash flow model, and which inputs matter most?

What they are checking: Whether they understand that discount rate and terminal value often drive most of the answer.

How do the three financial statements connect to each other?

What they are checking: Whether they have the accounting foundation this group of accountants and analysts relies on.

In a dispute, two experts value the same company very differently. Why might that happen?

What they are checking: Whether they see that assumptions and approach choices drive value, which is the heart of valuation disputes.

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The full job description

As published by Ankura.

Ankura is a team of excellence founded on innovation and growth. This position supports the Ankura Disputes & Economics Business Group - one of six practices focused on client delivery services across the Firm. Practice Overview: The Valuation and Transaction Disputes practice is a group of accountants and financial analysts that use their valuation and accounting skills to help resolve complex disputes and advise companies on complex transactions. Each project is a collaborative combination of team members who focus not only on complex problem solving but promoting a supportive environment full of challenging tasks and learning opportunities. Most projects begin with a blank slate after which the team designs creative and efficient approaches depending upon the specific facts and circumstances. The group’s clients are broad, spanning from Fortune 100 corporations to privately held partnerships, and projects can last from several weeks to several years. Position Overview: Associate, working as part of a project team, perform critical, value-added developing solutions to help clients address complex valuation, accounting and finance matters. Responsibilities (include, but not limited to): • Developing valuation and/or accounting analyses • Conducting research and analysis • Preparing reports that synthesize complex analyses • Interacting with clients, and providing excellent client service. Requirements: Candidates should be top academic performers, be interested in the consulting industry, and meet the following criteria: • Pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree with a major in accounting, finance, economics, or a Masters of Accounting with an expected graduation date between December 2026 to August 2027. • Preference: Goal of obtaining Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license and/or valuation credentials. • A cumulative GPA of 3.2 or better. • Candidates must be able to work in the U.S. without visa sponsorship (now or in the future). • Excellent verbal and written communication skills. • Creative problem-solving ability and a collaborative, consultancy mindset. • Ability to multi-task and effectively prioritize tasks. • Highly motivated, driven, and dynamic attitude towards work and career. • Ability to excel within a team environment. • Proficient in Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint; working knowledge of Microsoft Access. • Ability to learn or already possess skills related to valuation and accounting. • Must be willing to travel and work overtime as needed. • Please note that this role requires permanent authorization to work in the U.S. ( i.e. U.S. citizen or permanent resident). Internships and full-time University Associate roles are not  eligible for U.S. immigration sponsorship, work visa or any other temporary work authorization ( i.e. OPT, CPT). Ankura is required to include a reasonable estimate of the compensation range for this role. This compensation range is specific to the said markets and considers a broad range of factors including but not limited to skill sets, experience and training, licensure and certifications, and other business and organizational needs. The disclosed range estimate has not been adjusted for the applicable geographic differential associated with the location at which the position may be filled . The range does not include additional benefits outside of salary. At Ankura, it is not typical for an individual to be hired at or near the top of the range for their role and compensation decisions are dependent on the facts and circumstances of each role. A reasonable estimate of the current base pay range is between $50,000 to $120,000; this range is not a promise of a particular wage . Ankura is an Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against based on disability. Equal Employment Opportunity Posters, if you have a disability and believe you need a reasonable accommodation to search for a job opening, submit an online application, or participate in an interview/assessment, please email accommodations@ankura.com or call toll-free +1.312-583-2122. This email and phone number are created exclusively to assist disabled job seekers whose disability prevents them from being able to apply online. Only messages left for this purpose will be returned. Messages left for other purposes, such as following up on an application or technical issues unrelated to a disability, will not receive a response.

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