James Bertram
Clinical Assistant Professor of Finance
Listings
Educational Background
- Master of Business Administration, Gies College of Business, University of Illinois, 2021
- Bachelor of Science, Highest Honors, Finance, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 1989
Positions Held
- Clinical Assistant Professor of Finance, Finance, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 2023 to present
- Instructor of Finance, Finance, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 2021-2023
- Senior Director, Investment Banking, William Blair & Company, 2007-2023
- Managing Director, Co-Head of Consumer Goods Corporate & Investment Banking, Banc of America Securities, 1999-2006
Honors and Awards
- Career Influencer Award, University of Illinois, 2025-2026
- Dean's Impact Award, Gies College of Business, 2024-2025
Current Courses
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Investment Banking Academy (FIN 391) A diversified curriculum designed to prepare students for a successful career in investment banking; course incorporates peer mentorship, guest lectures (from bankers, accountants, private equity associates and hedge fund analysts), a case competition and a field trip. Course will not satisfy Finance major requirements.
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Investment Banking (FIN 463) The mechanics of financial statement analysis and ratio analysis; development of investment banking/corporate finance valuation models (including DCF, leveraged buyout and merger models) in order to determine the intrinsic value of companies and price investment banking deals.
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Investment Banking (FIN 526) Provides key building blocks necessary for a career in investment banking, valuation and other related fields. It is designed to provide a practical application of financial statement analysis, modeling, valuation, and presentation skills commonly performed by industry professionals.
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Investment Banking Concepts (FIN 573) Will build off the core topics explored in FIN 572, The Finance of Mergers and Acquisitions and ACCY 532, Accounting for Mergers and Acquisitions and Other Complex Transactions. It is designed to provide a practical application of financial statement analysis, modeling, and valuation. The course covers the mechanics of financial statement analysis, ratio analysis, and financial model building. The course will also focus on applying the financial statements and forecasts within the context of company valuation, utilizing common industry techniques.