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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive international deal origination and build long-term relationships in a high-growth software environment.
- Company: Dynamic firm based in Glasgow with a focus on M&A in the software sector.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, performance-based commission, hybrid working, and 28 days' annual leave.
- Other info: Supportive team culture with clear opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Gain direct exposure to international M&A and influence acquisition strategies.
- Qualifications: 2-5 years in Business Development or M&A, strong relationship-building skills required.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Drive international deal origination within a high-growth software investment environment where your ability to build trusted, long-term relationships will directly influence acquisition success. This permanent opportunity is based in Glasgow (hybrid, 2-3 days in the office) and offers genuine scope to shape pipeline strategy across Anglo-Saxon markets.
The Opportunity
As Business Development Associate, you will play a central role in building, managing and continuously improving a predictable business development funnel. Working closely with the UK M&A function, you will identify, engage and nurture relationships with founders and key decision-makers across Vertical Market Software businesses. This is a relationship-led origination role combining strategic market research, proactive outbound engagement and disciplined pipeline management. You will assess owner interest, encourage dialogue at the appropriate time and support the progression of qualified opportunities through the M&A pipeline.
Key Responsibilities
- Research and identify Vertical Market Software companies aligned to the firm's investment thesis
- Initiate and develop long-term relationships with founders, executives and key stakeholders
- Deliver structured outreach activity, managing call campaigns and meeting targets set by the team lead
- Build relationships with investment bankers, advisors and wider ecosystem contacts to enhance deal flow
- Qualify potential acquisition opportunities and support their progression through the transaction pipeline
- Maintain accurate CRM records, performance metrics and conversion analytics
- Undertake occasional domestic and international travel (with advance notice)
Required Skills Experience
- 2-5 years' experience in Business Development, sales or M&A deal origination
- Proven ability to build and nurture long-term commercial relationships
- Confidence in cold outreach and telephone-based prospecting (essential)
- Strong organisational and pipeline management capability
- Results-oriented, resilient and persistent approach
- Self-starter with the ability to work independently and take initiative
- Basic understanding of financial principles or exposure to software/technology sectors (advantageous)
- Commercial curiosity and a genuine interest in relationship-led acquisition activity
Package Benefits
- Competitive base salary plus performance-based commission linked to completed transactions
- Hybrid working model (3 days office / 2 days remote)
- 28 days' annual leave
- Company pension scheme
- Clear opportunities for professional development and progression
- Supportive, collaborative and high-performing team culture
Why This Role?
- Direct exposure to international M&A activity within the software sector
- Opportunity to influence acquisition strategy and pipeline development
- Blend of autonomy and collaboration within an entrepreneurial environment
- Long-term career development in a growing, acquisitive organisation
To learn more or apply, please contact Ross McQuarrie for a private and confidential discussion. Alternatively, submit your CV and we'll be in touch.
Business Development Associate - M&A Deal Origination in Glasgow employer: Wilkinson and Associates
Contact Detail:
Wilkinson and Associates Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Business Development Associate - M&A Deal Origination in Glasgow
✨Tip Number 1
Networking is key! Get out there and connect with industry professionals, attend events, and join relevant online communities. Building those long-term relationships will help you stand out in the M&A space.
✨Tip Number 2
Don’t shy away from cold outreach! Practice your pitch and reach out to founders and decision-makers directly. The more proactive you are, the better your chances of landing that dream role.
✨Tip Number 3
Keep your CRM game strong! Make sure you’re tracking your interactions and follow-ups meticulously. This not only helps you stay organised but also shows potential employers your attention to detail.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Business Development Associate - M&A Deal Origination in Glasgow
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Business Development Associate role. Highlight your experience in building relationships and managing pipelines, as these are key to our success.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Use your cover letter to tell us why you're passionate about M&A and how your background makes you a great fit for this role. Be sure to mention any relevant experience in the software sector or business development.
Showcase Your Relationship-Building Skills: In both your CV and cover letter, emphasise your ability to build long-term relationships. Share specific examples of how you've successfully engaged with stakeholders in previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity in Glasgow!
How to prepare for a job interview at Wilkinson and Associates
✨Know Your Market
Before the interview, dive deep into the Vertical Market Software sector. Understand the key players, trends, and challenges. This knowledge will not only impress your interviewers but also help you articulate how you can contribute to their acquisition strategy.
✨Build Your Relationship Skills
Since this role is all about building long-term relationships, think of examples from your past experiences where you've successfully nurtured connections. Be ready to discuss how you approach cold outreach and maintain those relationships over time.
✨Showcase Your Organisational Skills
Prepare to talk about your pipeline management strategies. Have specific examples ready that demonstrate your ability to manage multiple opportunities simultaneously while keeping accurate records. This will show that you're results-oriented and organised.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills in real-world scenarios. Think about how you would handle a situation where a potential acquisition is stalling. This will highlight your strategic thinking and resilience, which are crucial for this role.