At a Glance
- Tasks: Screen deals, build financial models, and analyse SaaS metrics in a hands-on internship.
- Company: Join Circeus, an innovative AI-native holding transforming B2B software businesses.
- Benefits: Gain real M&A experience, mentorship, and a clear path for career growth.
- Other info: Collaborate with investors and operators in a fast-paced environment.
- Why this job: Dive into the exciting world of M&A and AI-powered software with real responsibilities.
- Qualifications: Pursuing or completed degree in Finance, Economics, or related field; strong analytical skills required.
The predicted salary is between 22500 - 27500 £ per year.
About Circeus
Circeus is an AI-native holding that acquires and scales mission-critical B2B software businesses globally. We serve 200,000+ businesses across diverse verticals, focusing on high-retention, deeply embedded software. We acquire high-quality SaaS companies and accelerate their growth through a centralised AI platform, driving both revenue expansion and operational efficiency. We operate as long-term owners, continuously improving products through applied AI.
The Role
This is a hands‑on internship on the team that finds, evaluates, and acquires the software businesses that join Circeus, based in our London office. You will sit close to live deals from first look through to diligence, building the analysis that informs whether we pursue a target. Day to day, you will screen inbound and sourced opportunities, build financial models, and pull together the market and product context the team needs to move quickly. You will work directly with investors and operators, and see how an acquisition travels from a broker email to a signed deal. This role is ideal for someone analytical, commercially curious, and eager to learn how software companies are valued and acquired. Comfort with numbers is essential, while an interest in how AI is reshaping software will give you an edge.
What You’ll Do
- Screen inbound and proprietary deal flow against our acquisition criteria.
- Build and maintain financial models to assess target performance and valuation.
- Analyse SaaS metrics, including retention, churn, and recurring revenue quality.
- Research markets, competitors, and product positioning to support investment theses.
- Prepare screening memos and investment materials.
- Support commercial, financial, and product due diligence on live opportunities.
- Track and organise pipeline data across sourcing and diligence stages.
- Synthesise findings from calls with founders, brokers, and advisers.
What We’re Looking For
- Working towards or recently completed a degree in Finance, Economics, Engineering, or a related field.
- Strong analytical skills and confidence building and interpreting financial models.
- Advanced spreadsheet skills with the ability to turn complex data into clear insights.
- Commercial curiosity and genuine interest in software businesses.
- Excellent written communication skills for investment memos and analysis.
- Highly organised with the ability to manage multiple workstreams and deadlines.
- Fluent English.
Nice to Have
- Exposure to SaaS or B2B software through work, projects, or academic experience.
- Familiarity with AI tools and curiosity about their impact on software and investing.
- Previous internship experience in M&A, Private Equity, Investment Banking, or a startup.
- Basic SQL or data analysis skills.
- A second European language.
Why Circeus
- Learn across a broad portfolio of software businesses rather than a single company.
- Gain exposure to real M&A deals from sourcing through completion.
- Work directly with investors and operators in a fast‑moving environment.
- Collaborate with a central AI team applying technology across our portfolio.
- Enjoy real responsibility, mentorship, and a clear path for high performers.
Ready to launch your career in M&A while helping shape the future of AI‑powered software? We'd love to hear from you. Apply today.
M&A Intern employer: Shop Circle
Quince is an exceptional employer that champions a culture of innovation and sustainability, making it an ideal place for a Brand Designer passionate about creating timeless essentials. With a commitment to high-quality craftsmanship and fair pricing, employees enjoy a collaborative environment that prioritises personal growth and development, alongside the opportunity to work with cutting-edge technology in a rapidly evolving retail landscape. Located in a vibrant area, Quince offers unique advantages such as a focus on social responsibility and a direct impact on customer satisfaction, making every contribution meaningful and rewarding.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land M&A Intern
✨Connect at Consulting Competitions
Get yourself into as many consulting competitions as you can! These events are prime for showcasing your skills and meeting industry experts. They often lead to internships and can help you stand out when applying to companies like Shop Circle.
✨Leverage University Career Fairs
Don’t miss out on your university’s career fairs – they’re gold mines for landing consulting internships. Prep your pitch and be ready to impress recruiters from firms like Shop Circle. Follow up with them after the event to keep your name fresh in their minds!
✨Engage with Consulting Networks
Join local or online consulting networks. Platforms like LinkedIn or even Discord groups dedicated to management consulting can help you connect with current consultants who might have insider tips or leads on internships. Plus, it’s a great way to ask questions and learn more about the industry!
✨Get Involved in Case Study Workshops
Participate in case study workshops offered by career services or student societies. They not only hone your analytical skills but also prepare you for the type of work you may face at firms like Shop Circle. Plus, attendees often network with recruiters who could be scouting for interns!
We think you need these skills to ace M&A Intern
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Analytical Skills:As you're aiming for a management consulting internship, make sure your CV highlights your analytical skills. Include any relevant coursework or experiences where you've tackled complex problems and provided solutions. It's all about demonstrating your critical thinking, so don’t shy away from quantifying those achievements!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:In your cover letter, don't just list your credentials—tell us why you’re particularly passionate about management consulting. Share a brief story or example that illustrates your interest in the field, how you've developed relevant skills, and what you hope to learn from the internship at Shop Circle.
Tailor Your CV for Consulting:When putting together your CV, focus on emphasising teamwork, leadership, and project management experiences. Use bullet points to make your achievements clear and impactful. Remember to tailor your CV to the specific skills required in management consulting, as this will make a solid impression on us at Shop Circle.
Keep It Concise and Focused:Internships are all about potential, so keep your application clear and concise. Limit your CV to one page and stick to the most relevant experiences and skills. We want to see your motivation come through without wading through unnecessary fluff!
How to prepare for a job interview at Shop Circle
✨Show Us Your Analytical Skills
In management consulting, problem-solving is crucial. Be ready to tackle case studies during your interview. Brush up on your analytical skills, and prepare to walk the interviewer through your thought process step-by-step. Practise with some real-world business scenarios to get comfortable!
✨Know Your Consulting Frameworks
Familiarise yourself with popular consulting frameworks like SWOT analysis, Porter’s Five Forces, or the 4Ps of marketing. It's not just about knowing them; be prepared to discuss how you'd apply these frameworks to potential case questions and business problems during the interview.
✨Highlight Your Learning Potential
As this is an internship, demonstrate your enthusiasm for learning. Share examples of how you've quickly adapted to new challenges in past experiences. Employers want to see that you’re eager to absorb knowledge and grow within the consulting field.
✨Connect with Their Culture
Every consulting firm has its unique culture. Do a bit of homework on Shop Circle and what they value in their consultants. During the interview, be sure to discuss how your personal values align with theirs, showing that you're not just a good fit professionally, but also culturally.
