Head of Mergers and Acquisitions - Buy and Build

Job description

Our client is a platform operating in a fragmented mid-market segment with a clearly defined Buy & Build strategy. Backed by an experienced shareholder group, the company combines an ambitious acquisition agenda with a hands-on approach to operational value creation. The position is based in Munich. Tasks As Head of M&A, you will be the driving force behind the platform's inorganic growth. You take full ownership of the acquisition pipeline – from identifying and approaching suitable targets in the German Mittelstand, through structuring and negotiating transactions, to steering the post-merger integration alongside the operating team. You are not a pure deal executor; you are expected to think like an owner, actively shape the consolidation thesis, and serve as the key link between platform management, the shareholder group, and external advisors. Over time, the role naturally extends into broader operational responsibility within the platform. Your core responsibilities include: Developing and executing the acquisition strategy in close alignment with the shareholder group Independent origination, valuation, and negotiation of add-on targets in the German Mittelstand Managing due diligence processes and coordinating external advisors (legal, tax, commercial) Driving post-merger integration with a focus on value creation and operational alignment Building and maintaining a relevant network of entrepreneurs, advisors, and intermediaries Reporting to and sparring with the shareholder group Requirements The ideal candidate brings 8–10 years of professional experience with a strong M&A or transaction backbone. What sets you apart is hands-on exposure to Buy & Build environments – whether gained on the platform side, within an investment team, or in a portfolio operations or operating partner capacity. More specifically, we are looking for: Demonstrable track record in Buy & Build contexts – ideally on the platform or fund side Strong understanding of mid-market company structures, owner-operator dynamics, and succession themes Experience working alongside Private Equity shareholders; fund experience explicitly preferred Structured, entrepreneurial mindset with a high degree of ownership and autonomy Equal confidence in a boardroom setting and in hands-on workshops with a target's management team Fluent German and excellent English Benefits What makes this opportunity compelling is the combination of strategic influence and operational proximity. You work directly with the shareholder group at eye level, shape a platform in its formative growth phase, and have a clear trajectory toward an operational leadership position. In concrete terms, you can expect: Direct impact within an active platform strategy with a clear growth agenda Eye-level collaboration with an experienced shareholder group Path toward an operational leadership role within the platform Attractive compensation package including equity participation Munich-based with regular travel across the DACH region