At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead M&A processes, manage client relationships, and guide junior analysts in a dynamic environment.
- Company: Boutique corporate finance advisory firm based in Bristol, focused on owner-managed businesses.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, annual bonuses, 25 days holiday, and clear progression to Director/Partner.
- Other info: Join a small team with high deal exposure and low office politics.
- Why this job: Get hands-on experience with live transactions and make impactful connections from day one.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in corporate finance, strong financial modelling skills, and excellent communication.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 50000 £ per year.
About Headford Capital
Headford Capital is a boutique corporate finance advisory firm based in Aztec West, Bristol. We support owner-managed businesses and SMEs across the South West and UK on mergers, acquisitions, disposals, and capital raises, typically in the £5M-£50M range. We're deal-driven, sector-agnostic, and hands-on. You won't be stuck in pitch decks; you'll run live transactions and work directly with business owners from day one.
Role Purpose
The Managing M&A Advisor leads both deal execution and origination. You'll manage a portfolio of mandates, run client relationships, and guide junior analysts. This is a client-facing, office-based role requiring strong commercial judgement, technical capability, and the ability to close.
Key Responsibilities
- Deal Execution
- Lead end-to-end M&A processes: IM creation, buyer targeting, management presentations, data room, negotiation, SPA completion
- Oversee financial modelling, valuation, and commercial analysis
- Coordinate due diligence with legal, accounting, and specialist advisors
- Drive deals to completion against agreed timelines and fee budgets
- Client & Origination
- Manage senior client relationships from mandate through to completion
- Identify and convert new opportunities via networking, referrals, and targeted outreach
- Deliver proposals and pitches to business owners and boards
- Build relationships with PE firms, lenders, and strategic buyers
- Team & Operations
- Supervise and develop Analysts/Associates
- Maintain deal documentation in line with FCA and internal compliance standards
- Contribute to internal process improvements and marketing content
What We're Looking For
Essential
- 5+ years experience in corporate finance, M&A, transaction services, or investment banking
- Proven deal execution experience from LOI to completion
- Strong financial modelling and valuation skills (DCF, LBO, multiples)
- Excellent communication skills and confidence in boardroom environments
- 2:1 degree or above in Finance, Economics, Accounting, or related field
- Based in or willing to relocate to Bristol (office-based, 5 days/week)
Desirable
- ACA, ACCA, CIMA, or CFA qualification
- Sector exposure in logistics, manufacturing, TMT, or business services
- Existing network of PE houses, lenders, and business owners in the South West
Package
- Base Salary: £50,000
- Bonus: Annual PRP bonus linked to deal completion and origination (typical OTE £10k-£30k)
- Benefits: 25 days holiday + bank holidays, pension, paid professional memberships, clear progression to Director/Partner
Culture: Small team, low politics, high deal exposure. You'll be client-facing from week one.
Why Aztec West, Bristol
Aztec West is one of the South West's leading business hubs, offering excellent M4/M5 access, on-site parking, and proximity to HQs and PE-backed businesses placing you right where the deals happen.
How to Apply
Send your CV and a brief note outlining 12 deals you've led to the email address provided. Applications reviewed weekly. Interviews held on a rolling basis. Right to work in the UK required (no sponsorship available).
Locations
Managing M&A Advisor in Bath, Somerset employer: Headford Group
Headford Capital is an exceptional employer for those seeking a dynamic and rewarding career in corporate finance. Located in the thriving business hub of Aztec West, Bristol, we offer a collaborative work culture with minimal politics, allowing you to engage directly with clients from day one and gain invaluable deal exposure. With clear pathways for progression to Director or Partner, alongside competitive benefits including a performance-related bonus and professional development support, we are committed to fostering your growth in the M&A sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Managing M&A Advisor in Bath, Somerset
✨Tap into Campus Networks
If you're still in uni, don’t forget to engage with your campus's career services and attend finance-related events. Banks often do presentations and recruitment drives on campus, so put yourself out there and make use of these opportunities to show off your passion for the field.
✨Get Certified
Consider pursuing relevant certifications like the CFA or ACCA while you’re job hunting. They not only beef up your CV but also connect you with professional bodies which can lead to networking opportunities and even job openings in banking and financial services.
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Join finance-focused groups on platforms like LinkedIn and engage in discussions. This can really help you stand out from the crowd, allowing potential employers to see your knowledge and interest in industry trends. Plus, you might stumble upon job postings shared exclusively within the group.
✨Apply Directly and Be Proactive
Don’t shy away from reaching out directly to firms like Headford Group. Use their websites and apply through them, but also consider following up with a polite email to express your enthusiasm. Being proactive can make a huge difference in getting noticed in the competitive financial services sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Managing M&A Advisor in Bath, Somerset
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Numbers!:In the banking and financial services world, quantifiable achievements are key. Make sure your CV highlights your grades in relevant subjects, any financial certifications you hold, and specific projects where you've delivered measurable results. Employers love to see how your skills translate into real-world success.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Role:When applying for a full-time position, your cover letter should make a direct connection between your experience and the job description. Don't just state your enthusiasm for finance—dive into how your background in banking or financial analysis sets you apart. Let your passion shine through while being specific about what you can bring to Headford Group.
Include Relevant Financial Software Experience:If you've worked with financial modelling tools or software like Excel, SAP, or specific analytical tools during your studies or internships, bring that up! Highlighting your proficiency can really make your application pop and show you're ready to hit the ground running in a full-time role.
Research and Reflect:Before hitting that 'apply' button on Headford Group's website, do a little digging. Look up their recent projects, values, and culture. Reflecting their ethos in your application can make a huge difference and show you’re genuinely interested in being part of the team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Headford Group
✨Brush Up on Financial Analysis Skills
Make sure you're well-versed in financial concepts and analytical techniques relevant to banking and financial services. Get comfortable with tools like Excel for modelling or financial forecasting, as technical questions in this area are common during interviews with Headford Group.
✨Prepare for Case Studies
Expect to tackle case studies that demonstrate your problem-solving skills in real-world banking scenarios. Familiarise yourself with the types of problems you might face—think risk assessments or investment evaluations—and be ready to articulate your thought process clearly.
✨Show Your Passion for Finance
Since this is a full-time position, employers at Headford Group will be keen to see your genuine interest in finance. Be prepared to discuss recent industry trends or news articles that excite you, showcasing your enthusiasm and engagement with the field.
✨Network with Industry Professionals
Before your interview, reach out to current or former Headford Group employees on platforms like LinkedIn. They'll offer unique insights into the company's culture and the interview process, which can give us a delightful edge in showcasing a good fit for the team.
