M&A Associate

Aspire Software continues to grow, and we are looking to hire an experienced M&A Associate to drive our growth-through-acquisition strategy to join our growing team in Toronto.

As an M&A Associate at Aspire Software, you will play a critical role in driving our growth-through-acquisition strategy. You will focus on identifying, evaluating, and negotiating the acquisition of vertical software businesses in niche markets, working closely with our Head of M&A. You will own the end-to-end acquisition process, from sourcing targets to closing deals, with the goal of contributing $15-20 million annually in acquired revenues. This role requires a unique blend of business development, financial analysis, and relationship management skills, as well as an entrepreneurial spirit and a passion for uncovering new opportunities.

Here is a little window into our company: At Aspire Software, we never stop building. Aspire Software is a vertical acquisition software company that owns, operates and manages a diverse portfolio. Aspire Software, the operational arm of Valsoft Corp, operates and manages Valsoft's global portfolio of wholly owned software companies, providing mission-critical solutions across multiple verticals. By implementing industry best practices, Aspire delivers a time-sensitive integration process, and the operation of a decentralized model has allowed it to become a hub for creating rapid growth by reinvesting in its portfolio.

Our motto is “Be Humble, Stay Hungry!” 

The successful candidate will be based anywhere within a commutable distance of our office in Toronto, working in an on-site work model.

What your day will look like:

• Employ a proactive approach, reaching out to potential targets through various channels, conducting exploratory calls, and fostering relationships with business owners and sell-side advisors
• Evaluate and assess target acquisitions against Aspire Software's criteria and determine realistic valuation expectations
• Conduct pre-acquisition due diligence, covering both commercial and financial aspects, in collaboration with the Montreal team
• Provide execution support to deal leads through the acquisition process by collaborating with cross-functional teams
• Prepare reports and presentations summarizing diligence findings
• Conduct market and industry research to identify trends and risks
• Negotiate deal terms, aiming to achieve $15-20 million in annual acquired revenues with the support of the Head of M&A
• Perform other related duties as assigned to contribute to the overall success of acquisition initiatives
• Stay updated on industry trends and best practices by researching and understanding target markets and economic factors

About You:

• A Bachelor's degree or advanced degree in Finance, Accounting, Engineering, or a related quantitative field is essential
• 2+ years of experience in Investment Banking, Private Equity, M&A, or Corporate Finance is a prerequisite
• Strong business development and financial analysis skills
• Ability to work towards sourcing deals independently and being responsible for a pipeline
• Willingness to travel for deals, trade shows, and conferences
• CFA designation is highly advantageous
• Familiarity with a buy-and-build model and experience/knowledge in vertical software, technology, or software (asset)
• Demonstrated eagerness to learn about various businesses across diverse industries
• Growth mindset, with a commitment to personal and process improvement
• Excellent interpersonal skills to build and maintain authentic, long-term relationships
• Entrepreneurial mindset, capable of independently overcoming challenges and establishing operations in new countries
• Proven leadership skills with the potential to build, grow, and manage a local team in the future
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, financial modeling, and Salesforce (asset)
• Eagerness to adapt in a dynamic and fast-paced environment and learn software business models
• Fluent in English, both written and verbal, is essential
• Legally authorized to work in Canada

For more information about Aspire Software, please visit our website at www.aspiresoftware.com

We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.