Associate, Portfolio Company Value Creation, Opportunistic Credit

Ares Management is seeking an Associate, Portfolio Company Value Creation, Opportunistic Credit to join the Portfolio Optimization team in Los Angeles. The Associate will report directly to the Managing Director, Portfolio Optimization, and will operate in a direct, high-trust apprenticeship model. The role requires translating investment theses into practical, sequenced, and measurable actions — and partnering with management teams to drive real execution.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree required; strong academic performance preferred.
• MBA optional but not required.
• 2–3 years of experience in management consulting, investment banking, or similar analytical environment and / or 2+ years in an operating role at a technology-enabled or middle-market company, with hands-on involvement in designing and implementing operational or data-driven initiatives.

Benefits

• Comprehensive Medical/Rx, Dental and Vision plans
• 401(k) program with company match
• Flexible Savings Accounts (FSA)
• Healthcare Savings Accounts (HSA) with company contribution
• Basic and Voluntary Life Insurance
• Long-Term Disability (LTD) and Short-Term Disability (STD) insurance
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Commuter Benefits plan for parking and transit
• Access to a world-class medical advisory team
• Mental health app with coaching, therapy and psychiatry
• Mindfulness and wellbeing app
• Financial wellness benefit with access to a financial advisor
• New parent leave
• Reproductive and adoption assistance
• Emergency backup care
• Matching gift program
• Education sponsorship program