At a Glance
- Tasks: Support M&A strategy, identify targets, and manage transactions in a dynamic environment.
- Company: Join a high-growth Private Equity backed business services firm with a collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and opportunities for career advancement.
- Other info: Dynamic team environment with mentorship opportunities and a focus on personal growth.
- Why this job: Make an impact in corporate development and drive growth through strategic acquisitions.
- Qualifications: Strong analytical skills, finance background, and excellent communication abilities.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 70000 £ per year.
Dartmouth Partners are mandated by a high growth Private Equity backed business services firm in their search for an M A Associate to join their Group Corporate Development team.
MAIN PURPOSE OF THE JOB
The M Associate will support the Group Head of M A, M A Directors and Country CEOs throughout Europe to further build and develop the company by driving the external growth strategy in a leveraged buyout environment. She / He will work closely with Country CEOs to identify targets, define strategic rationale and evaluate potential transactions.
PRINCIPAL RESPONSIBILITIES
- Development and management of a strong M A pipeline:
- Identify potential acquisitions in within their primary target region(s) (as well as other regions on an ad hoc basis if required) and develop relationships with potential partners.
- Analyze market segments and identify strategic opportunities.
- Prepare and manage the confidentiality agreements.
- Analyze preliminary data such as audited and management accounts, evaluate targets based on their business and financial condition and outlook, carry out valuation analysis and prepare investment recommendation for the board of directors.
- Assist in preparing and negotiate non-binding offers, in close cooperation with country CEOs, M A Directors and the Group Head of M A.
- Manage the Transaction process and support day to day negotiations, including interfacing with the potential targets, its shareholders or advisors as required.
- Manage the due diligence and coordinate the activities of other external advisors (e.g. legal counsel, auditors) as required.
- Prepare sale and purchase agreement, representations and warranties, with legal counsels and help negotiate final documents.
- Assist with the presentation of final recommendation, due diligence findings, and integration plan to the Board of Directors.
- Organize signing/closing, interfacing with all internal and external parties.
- Perform peer reviews, train and mentor M A analyst(s) and support, in relation to the workload, other members of the M A team as required.
Integration of the acquired companies:
- Prepare and project lead the first phase of the post-merger integration (until the target is absorbed).
- Follow-up any post-closing obligation resulting from the acquisition (annual account, earn-outs, post-closing performance, warranties).
KEY PERFORMANCE OBJECTIVES
- Work with the M A Directors, Group Head of M A and the Executive Board to develop and implement the Group Strategic plan, closing deals in line with the strategy.
- Develop relationships with companies in the industry to feed a strong pipeline of opportunities.
- Maintain updated log-files of targets with information on companies and last contact.
- Ensure all targets are tracked and contacted, in close coordination with the business.
- Prepare high-quality acquisition recommendations to the Executive Committee and Board of Directors.
- Train, support and manage M A Analyst(s) and other junior team members.
- Ensure the consistent implementation of Group M A policies and methodologies in partnership with country management teams.
KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS
- Languages that are highly desirable; strong German, Spanish, Dutch or French.
- Outstanding technical / conceptual understanding of finance valuations.
- Strong computer, analytical, and organizational skills.
- Ability to communicate clearly on all levels and with different types of personalities; genuine positive and outgoing personality.
- Finance / Technical Background demonstrated through any combination of Finance or Engineering Bachelor’s degree, Master’s degree in Business Administration, and/or CFA Certification.
- ACA qualified or equivalent preferred but not required.
- Established background in Transaction Services/ FDD or M A Advisory.
- Experience in the corporate development team of an international group would be beneficial but not essential.
PERSONAL QUALITIES
- Strong cross-functional collaboration abilities, initiative, and teambuilding skills.
- Excellent command of both written and spoken English.
- Excellent communication (oral and written) and attention to detail.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team, self-motivation, adaptability, and a positive attitude.
- Ability to learn new techniques, multi-tasking, keep accurate records, follow instructions, and comply with company policies.
- Provable ability to seek and approach new business opportunities.
If it’s something that seems like it might be of interest, we invite you to apply!
M Associate employer: Dartmouth Partners
Join a dynamic and rapidly growing Private Equity backed business services firm as an M&A Associate, where you will play a pivotal role in shaping the company's external growth strategy. Our collaborative work culture fosters innovation and professional development, offering ample opportunities for mentorship and training within a supportive team environment. Located in a vibrant city, we provide a stimulating workplace that values diversity and encourages employees to thrive both personally and professionally.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land M Associate
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect on LinkedIn. The more relationships you build, the better your chances of hearing about opportunities before they even hit the job boards.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its recent deals. Show that you understand their business model and how you can contribute to their growth strategy. Tailor your answers to reflect their values and goals.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain why you're the perfect fit for the M&A Associate role. Highlight your analytical skills, experience with valuations, and ability to work collaboratively with teams across different regions.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace M Associate
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the M&A Associate role. Highlight relevant experience and skills that match the job description, like your analytical abilities and any previous M&A exposure. We want to see how you can contribute to our team!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about M&A and how your background aligns with our goals. Keep it concise but impactful – we love a good story!
Showcase Your Skills:Don’t forget to highlight your technical skills, especially in finance and analysis. If you’ve got experience with valuations or due diligence, make sure to mention it. We’re looking for someone who can hit the ground running!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Dartmouth Partners
✨Know Your M&A Fundamentals
Brush up on your mergers and acquisitions knowledge, especially in the context of private equity. Be prepared to discuss valuation techniques, deal structures, and market analysis. This will show that you understand the core responsibilities of the M&A Associate role.
✨Research the Company and Its Strategy
Dive deep into the company's growth strategy and recent acquisitions. Understanding their business model and how they integrate new companies will help you align your answers with their goals during the interview.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect technical questions related to financial analysis and valuation. Practise explaining your thought process clearly and concisely, as this role requires strong analytical skills and the ability to communicate complex ideas effectively.
✨Showcase Your Teamwork Skills
Since the role involves collaboration with various stakeholders, be ready to share examples of how you've successfully worked in teams. Highlight your ability to build relationships and manage cross-functional projects, as these are key qualities for the M&A Associate position.