The Role
The Associate Analyst 3 (AA3) will work with lead analysts in assigning and monitoring credit ratings; researching, drafting, and publishing research; and other activities. The AA3 will perform an evaluation of credit risk by integrating credit risk inputs prepared by internal and external parties. In conducting credit analysis for their assigned credits, transactions, or credit reviews, AA3s are expected to participate in rating committee discussions and interact with issuers and other market participants, in collaboration with lead analysts.

The AA3 role is integral to Moody’s focus on ratings accuracy, research, and market outreach. The AA3 role will typically focus primarily on one rating group, with the potential for cross-training in and/or working for other rating groups.

Key Responsibilities

Portfolio Management & Credit Quality

Working with lead analysts by performing day-to-day credit analysis related to ratings, research, presentations, and investor outreach. Examples of analytical work may include:

• Reviewing financial documents and charts, analyzing data and financial documents, building and updating financial forecasts, and writing analytical commentary in accordance with Moody’s methodologies.
• Assisting with proprietary models and new financial projections as applicable, identifying trends in data, and applying analytical skills and judgment to form well-reasoned credit conclusions.
• Developing a working knowledge of credit fundamentals through a review of components such as transaction documentation, cash flow analysis, or loss allocation rules.
• Performing analytical tasks related to portfolio reviews and other credit projects.
• Developing a working knowledge of Moody’s methodologies and credit rating standard processes, and applying these with guidance from lead analysts.

• Collaborating with lead analysts in preparing the first draft of rating committee memos.
• Developing the ability to understand and identify key factors that affect issuer credit ratings. Interpreting and analyzing financial data and other credit inputs provided by internal and external parties.
• Monitoring credit quality and issuer and/or industry trends by following market developments and relevant news events, analyzing issuer reporting (including, in some rating groups monitoring and attending earnings calls), and engaging with issuers directly for follow-up clarification and information.
• Attending and participating in rating committee meetings, including, offering analysis and opinion where appropriate. Preparing credit estimates analysis used to assess elements of credit risk in certain rated transactions.

Research, Investor Outreach & Market Interaction

• Contributing to the first draft of core research (such as credit opinions, issuer and sector comments, press releases, pre-sale, and new issue reports) in collaboration with lead analysts.
• Contributing to research strategy, including idea generation and preliminary drafting, and adhering to Moody’s research standards.
• Attending investor briefings and issuer meetings as required; helping prepare presentation materials in some cases; arriving prepared to engage in discussions.
• Building positive relationships with issuers displaying initiative to understand the issuer’s business and proactively responding to issuer inquiries.

Credit Administration

• Operating applicable ratings and research systems and using software specific to the rating group.
• Demonstrating sound understanding and judgment in applying Moody’s processes, documentation standards, and standard processes, and adhering to all laws and policies.

Coaching & Guidance

• Providing guidance in the delegation of work to the data processing team.
• Actively handling workload pipeline to provide sufficient time for completion. Seeking guidance from the manager where needed to resolve how to prioritize work.
• Providing feedback to the manager on the quality and accuracy of work produced by the data processing team, while providing constructive and proactive feedback.

Risk Identification and Escalation

• Ensure compliance with applicable laws, regulations, policies, and procedures to certify relevant key codes as required. Complete mandatory required training in a timely manner.
• Awareness of Moody’s risk management approach.
• Increase awareness of cyber risks and avoidance of vulnerabilities e.g., e-mail use (phishing malware).
• Ensure high quality of work, free of errors.

Experience / Qualifications

• Minimum undergraduate/first-level degree (e.g. Bachelor’s Degree, or equivalent qualifications) with strong academic performance (in the US, minimum GPA of 3.0).
• Some relevant experience (including internships) is preferred.
• Excellent verbal, written communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Proficient in MS Excel, Word, and PowerPoint
• Proactive and able to work effectively in a collaborative team environment.
• Strong organization skills, analytical thinking, and attention to detail.
• Ability to adapt to a changing environment and prioritize tasks accordingly.
• Some understanding of fixed income markets and/or credit knowledge is preferred.

Associate Analyst 3 - New York

Moody’s is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, gender, age, religion, national origin, citizen status, marital status, physical or mental disability, military or veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by law. Moody’s also provides reasonable accommodation to qualified individuals with disabilities or based on a sincerely held religious belief in accordance with applicable laws. If you need to inquire about a reasonable accommodation, or need assistance with completing the application process, please email accommodations@moodys.com. This contact information is for accommodation requests only, and cannot be used to inquire about the status of applications.

For San Francisco positions, qualified applicants with criminal histories will be considered for employment consistent with the requirements of the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance.

This position may be considered a promotional opportunity, pursuant to the Colorado Equal Pay for Equal Work Act.

Click here to view our full EEO policy statement. Click here for more information on your EEO rights under the law. Click here to view our Pay Transparency Nondiscrimination statement.

Moody's (NYSE: MCO) is a global integrated risk assessment firm that empowers organizations to make better decisions. Our data, analytical solutions and insights help decision-makers identify opportunities and manage the risks of doing business with others. We believe that greater transparency, more informed decisions, and fair access to information open the door to shared progress. Moody's combines international presence with local expertise and over a century of experience in financial markets. Learn more at moodys.com.

At Moody’s, we’re taking action. We’re hiring diverse talent and providing underrepresented groups with equitable opportunities in their careers. We’re educating, empowering and elevating our people, and creating a workplace where each person can be their true selves, reach their full potential and thrive on every level. Learn more about our DE&I initiatives, employee development programs and view our annual DE&I Report at moodys.com/diversity

For US-based roles only: the anticipated hiring base salary range for this position is $72,200 to $84,500, depending on factors such as experience, education, level, skills, and location. This range is based on a full-time position. In addition to base salary, this role is eligible for incentive compensation. Moody’s also offers a competitive benefits package, including not but limited to medical, dental, vision, parental leave, paid time off, a 401(k) plan with employee and company contribution opportunities, life, disability, and accident insurance, a discounted employee stock purchase plan, and tuition reimbursement.