Discover the Robert W. Baird Internship Program: Launch Your Career in Finance

Robert W. Baird & Co. offers a comprehensive internship program designed to provide students with real-world experience and a strong foundation for a successful career in the financial services industry. With a focus on hands-on learning, mentorship, and a collaborative culture, Baird's internship program attracts top talent from universities across the nation. The program offers opportunities in various areas, including Global Investment Banking, Private Wealth Management, and Equity Research.

A Culture of Growth and Development

Baird distinguishes itself with an award-winning, employee-owned culture that prioritizes professional development. Interns are treated as valuable team members and are given opportunities to contribute directly to the success of the firm. The emphasis on teamwork, mentorship, and a flat organizational structure allows interns to gain access to executive insights and build relationships across the company.

Jay Schwister, Research Director and Senior Portfolio Manager, highlighted the impact of the Baird Intern Program, referencing the experiences of long-term interns George Wong and Victoria Rios. George Wong, a senior involved in Marquette University's Applied Investment Management Program, honed his finance skills with Baird Advisors’ Municipal team over two years. Victoria Rios began her internship with Baird Advisors as a freshman in high school through the Cristo Rey work study program.

Mary Ellen Stanek, Co-Chief Investment Officer at Baird Advisors, emphasized the firm's commitment to diversity, stating, “We are growing our team by identifying talent that is diverse across skillsets, experience and cultural backgrounds.”

Internship Opportunities and Structure

Baird offers internship programs in various areas, each designed to provide unique experiences and skill development.

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Global Investment Banking Internship Program

This 10-week summer program is primarily located in Baird’s Chicago or Milwaukee offices. Interns are expected to work full-time during the summer, with significant hours required. The program focuses on providing interns with hands-on experience in high-profile deals and major growth initiatives.

What You'll Do:

Play an integral role on investment banking teams, providing analytical support primarily for sell-side mergers and acquisitions, as well as occasional buy-side mandates, public equity offerings, and other financial advisory services for clients.
Assist in the preparation of company valuations, financial models, perform research and various analyses in support of new business generation.
Hone your skills by working closely with senior bankers and client senior management on a variety of transactions.
Support primarily on domestic and cross-border M&A transactions, with clients including Fortune 1000 companies, private equity groups, and founder-run businesses.
Gain relevant experience in all areas of a transaction, from preparation of marketing materials to facilitation of due diligence.

What You’ll Gain:

The kind of environment that turns early talent into lasting careers
Unique culture that values diverse backgrounds and perspectives while emphasizing respectful teamwork and a strong sense of partnership.
Achieve professional development and advance your career through lean deal teams which provide greater responsibility and daily interaction with senior bankers.

What It Takes:

Current enrollment in a Bachelor’s degree program required with a graduation date of December 2027 or Spring 2028
A full-time minimum 10-week commitment during the summer is required
Proven interest in investment banking or other areas within the financial services industry is beneficial
Possess a strong work ethic and a record for excellence
Ability to function both within teams and self-directed tasks
Superior intellect, demonstrated leadership ability, excellent verbal and written communication skills, attention to detail, and a commitment to excellence.

Private Wealth Management Internship Program

This internship offers students a chance to gain real-world experience in the day-to-day operations of a successful financial advisory team. Interns apply knowledge gained in the classroom to develop relevant professional experience while creating meaningful relationships.

The Impact You’ll Make:

Support various projects from Financial Advisors (i.e. review reports and conduct research)
Prepare for client meetings and presentations
Assist with financial planning and market research
Handle admin tasks, calls and basic client questions
Contribute to branch marketing initiatives
Process paperwork and documents
Perform other duties and project support as needed

What You’ll Bring to Baird:

Pursuing a bachelor’s degree in finance, business or related degree preferred
Anticipated graduation date of December 2026 or later
Interest in financial services and developing a career in private wealth management
Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to connect clearly and professionally with clients and associates
Organizational excellence, with the capacity to manage multiple priorities, demonstrate strong attention to detail and ensure high-quality and on-time delivery
High level of motivation, proactivity and strategic thinking, with a strong commitment to learning and contributing effectively
Prior experience in an office setting is preferred

Equity Research Internship Program

The Equity Research Analyst Internship offers a dynamic experience within a collaborative and fun environment. Interns gain exposure to the business world and develop meaningful work experience.

Responsibilities:

Interns will assist in covering companies and getting to know Baird's best institutional clients.

Application Process and Timeline

Baird has specific recruiting timelines for its various internship programs:

Global Investment Banking Analyst: Undergraduate students are typically recruited during their sophomore year for an internship the summer following their junior year. Applications open in late December and remain open for two weeks, concluding with Super Days in late February.
Global Investment Banking Associate: First-year MBA students are recruited for an internship the summer following their first year. Applications open in mid-September and remain open for a month. The process concludes with Super Days in December (January for select schools).
Equity Research: Undergraduate students are recruited during their sophomore year for an internship the summer following their junior year. Applications open in January and roles are typically filled by September.

Students can apply via BairdCareers.com or through their university’s career management system. Baird encourages submitting applications as soon as possible.

Compensation and Benefits

Baird offers competitive compensation and benefits to its interns. For example, the base salary for the Summer 2027 Analyst Internship program is $110,000 (pro-rated for the summer program). Interns also receive paid holidays. The hourly rate for the Private Wealth Management Internship is $18.00.

Mentorship and Training

During the first full week of the program, interns participate in training at Baird’s Chicago or Milwaukee office. Interns are assigned a peer mentor and a senior mentor for the duration of their internship, providing guidance and support throughout their experience.

Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives

Baird is committed to diversity and provides employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, citizenship, national origin, age, disability, military service, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, or any other status protected by law.

Baird is also actively working to increase the representation of women in investment banking through initiatives such as the Ascend to Global Investment Banking program. This program provides high-potential female candidates with a hands-on, in-depth introduction to investment banking.

Success Stories and Conversion to Full-Time Employment

Many Baird interns have gone on to successful careers at the firm. Baird encourages interns to apply for full-time roles, and approximately 45% of interns convert into full-time positions.

Testimonials from former interns highlight the value of the Baird internship experience:

"What has stood out to me is the strength of Baird’s culture."
"The teams I worked with empowered me."
"I’m so grateful for my internship, which has provided me with invaluable mentorship."
"My internship has been a great opportunity to sharpen my technical skills."

Beyond the Internship: Baird's Commitment

Baird's commitment extends beyond the internship program. The firm actively supports the community through initiatives like Baird Gives Back Day and various informal events. Baird also offers scholarships to support students in their academic pursuits. With more than $171 billion in client assets, Baird provides advice and services with clients' best interests in mind, operating across institutional sales and trading, and investment banking. Baird has invested in more than 280 companies over its history, attracting top talent from the nation's finest universities.

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