Direct Lending Principal of Investments | Dallas, TX, USA | In-Office

The company is a private credit investment firm focused on originating and managing senior secured debt investments in lower middle market companies. The firm partners closely with private equity sponsors and founder‑owned businesses, providing flexible capital solutions to support acquisitions, growth initiatives, recapitalizations, and refinancings. Role Overview: The MD / Principal Underwriter will play a critical role in evaluating, structuring, and underwriting new private credit investments while supporting portfolio management activities. This individual will serve as the primary deal lead on originated opportunities, working closely with internal team members, private equity sponsors, management teams, legal counsel, and third‑party advisors to assess credit risk, develop investment theses, and maintain disciplined underwriting standards. The role requires strong financial analysis, sound judgment, and the ability to lead lean deal teams while operating independently in a fast‑paced environment. Key Responsibilities: • Lead underwriting, structuring, diligence, and execution of new investment opportunities from start to finish • Assess business quality, industry dynamics, sponsor capability, and key credit risks and mitigants • Develop and defend the credit thesis, downside cases, and structural protections • Prepare and present investment memoranda to the investment committee • Negotiate key economic and documentation terms alongside legal counsel • Drive deal timelines and coordinate internal and external stakeholders through closing • Monitor ongoing performance of closed deals, including financial results, and lead negotiations for required amendments throughout the deal lifecycle Qualifications: • 7-10+ years of experience in private credit, direct lending, or other credit‑focused roles • Proven track record of independently leading lower middle market debt transactions to close • Deep understanding of senior secured cash‑flow lending and credit documentation • Strong financial modeling, analytical, and credit judgment skills • Ability to operate with autonomy and accountability within a small, execution‑focused team • Clear, concise communication skills and experience presenting to senior decision makers • Bachelor's degree in finance, accounting, economics, or a related field Compensation: Competitive base salary, performance based bonus, and long‑term incentive participation, commensurate with experience.