Head of Corporate Development - Backed by Global PE Business

SJC Partners is managing the recruitment process for the hire of a Head of Corporate Development into a business within the wholesale distribution sector, backed by a major global private equity business.

The Head of Corporate Development will own and drive the Group’s M&A strategy to continue on its growth trajectory with a target to double in size over the value-creation cycle across 4-5 years. The role will help to accelerate current M&A activities to a capacity that can handle 4-5 deals annually (the Group has been highly acquisitive historically). Typical deal sizes will be EBITDA €1-5m.

Reporting to the CEO, the role will be responsible for driving and delivering the business’s strategic goals and you will also support the CEO in making initial approaches to key target companies.

As the business has a pan-European focus with sites across Germany, UK, Benelux and Austria, the candidate could work in any one of those countries. The company are happy with a hybrid or remote working arrangement (with an expectation that the individual will visit sites).

Responsibilities:

• Financial Analysis: Conduct in-depth financial analysis of potential acquisition targets. This includes financial statement analysis, valuation modelling, and financial forecasting.
• Due Diligence Assistance: Assist in the due diligence process by gathering and analysing financial data, legal documents, and operational metrics. Collaborate with cross-functional teams and advisors to evaluate risks and opportunities associated with potential acquisitions.
• Strategic Support: Contribute to the development of strategic plans and recommendations for potential M&A transactions, utilizing expertise in corporate finance.
• Transaction Coordination: Support M&A transaction coordination by assisting in the drafting of transaction documents and liaising with legal and financial advisors. Ensure compliance with all required procedures.
• Stakeholder Communication: Provide updates on M&A activities to senior management and cross-functional teams, ensuring effective communication and soliciting input as needed.
• Market Research: Conduct industry research to identify trends, assess competitor activities, and pinpoint potential M&A opportunities.
• Documentation and Reporting: Maintain accurate records and reporting related to M&A activities and draft the investment committee papers.

Experience and Requirements:

• Proven drive, energy, enthusiasm, and ambition with a strong track record in value creation at a commercial and financial level.
• Able to easily cut through complexity – keeping things simple and focused.
• Growth-oriented, forward-thinking, and creative.
• Commercial, strategic, and hands-on.
• Strong intellect, highly analytical, close to detail, good judgment, and strong commercial instincts.
• Strong financial analysis and modelling skills.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and an empowering coaching approach
• An understanding of the broader competitive landscape and a sound awareness of the critical value drivers.
• Self-motivated and proactive, with a high level of commitment and resilience. An entrepreneurial self-starter mindset.
• Relevant sector experience is a plus but not an absolute pre-requisite.

This role offers the opportunity to play a major role in the development of a scaled PE backed group. For the right candidate, this business is open to offering a management incentive plan or sweet equity linked to a planned exit.