Head of Mergers and Acquisitions - Buy and Build | JobSetuu

Description

Job Overview

• Source: Arbeitnow
• Location: Munich
• Job Type: Full-Time

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

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Expert Career Tips for Head of Mergers and Acquisitions - Buy and Build Roles

To succeed in a competitive market as a Head of Mergers and Acquisitions - Buy and Build, you need more than just technical skills. Here are some expert strategies to elevate your profile:

• Build a Strong Portfolio: For technical roles, a clean GitHub or a personal project site is essential. For non-technical roles, a case study portfolio demonstrating problem-solving and impact is equally valuable. Show, don't just tell, what you have achieved in your previous positions.
• Master the Narrative: When interviewing, use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers. Quantify your results wherever possible—mentioning "increased efficiency by 20%" is much more impactful than saying "improved efficiency."
• Continuous Learning: The industry moves fast. Whether it's staying updated with the latest AI tools or mastering a new management methodology, continuous professional development is key. Consider obtaining industry-recognized certifications that align with Head of Mergers and Acquisitions - Buy and Build requirements.
• Networking: Connect with other professionals in similar roles. Join online communities, attend webinars, and engage in meaningful discussions on professional social networks. Often, the best opportunities come through referrals and community engagement.
• Soft Skills Matter: Communication, empathy, and leadership are often the deciding factors between two equally qualified technical candidates. Cultivate these skills as they are universally valued across all industries and seniority levels.

Additionally, research the specific company's culture and values. Tailoring your application to show how you align with their mission can significantly increase your chances of moving forward in the process.

Salary & Compensation

Salary not disclosed; typically competitive for the role.

Work Arrangement

Type: On-Site

Standard business hours at the office.

Comprehensive Application Strategy & Hiring Process

Applying for a new role is a marathon, not a sprint. Follow this strategic approach to maximize your success rate:

1. Initial Research & Tailoring

Don't send the same resume to every employer. Spend at least 30 minutes researching the company. Look for recent news, their product roadmap, and their team structure. Modify your summary and core competencies to reflect the specific keywords found in the job description.

2. The Perfect Cover Letter

If the application allows for a cover letter, use it to tell a story that your resume cannot. Explain why you are passionate about this specific company and how your unique background makes you the perfect fit for the challenges they are currently facing.

3. Navigating the Multi-Stage Interview

Most modern hiring processes involve 3-5 stages. This typically includes a recruiter screen, a technical or skill-based assessment, a peer interview, and a final leadership round. Prepare for each stage differently: focus on enthusiasm and fit for the recruiter, technical depth for the assessment, and strategic vision for the leadership round.

4. Post-Interview Follow-Up

Always send a personalized thank-you note within 24 hours of each interview. Reference a specific topic discussed during the call to demonstrate your active listening and genuine interest in the role.

By following these steps, you demonstrate a high level of professionalism and attention to detail that sets you apart from the average applicant.

Typical Interview Process

1. Resume screening
2. HR call
3. Skill interview
4. Final manager interview
5. Offer

Tip: Research the company's products and culture.

Global Market Intelligence & Relocation Insights

At JobSetuu, we specialize in helping talent navigate the global job market. Here is what you need to know about the current landscape in Munich and beyond:

The demand for skilled professionals is increasingly borderless. For roles based in Munich, understanding the local cost of living, visa requirements (if applicable), and cultural nuances is vital. If this is a remote role, consider the time zone alignment and the asynchronous communication culture of the hiring organization.

Relocation Support: Many forward-thinking companies offer relocation packages that include moving stipends, temporary housing, and legal assistance with work permits. When evaluating an offer, look beyond the base salary—consider the total compensation package, including equity, bonuses, and healthcare benefits.

Work-Life Balance Trends: Hybrid and remote work have become standard in many regions. Research the local labor laws and common practices regarding work hours and vacation time to ensure the role aligns with your lifestyle goals.

Leveraging JobSetuu's tools can help you compare salaries across different cities and understand the "purchasing power" of your potential offer, ensuring you make an informed decision for your long-term career path.

Skills & Competency Roadmap for Professional Development

To remain competitive in Professional Development, we recommend focusing on the following core competencies over the next 12-18 months:

• Technical Mastery: Deepen your expertise in the core tools and languages relevant to your field. For developers, this might be cloud architecture; for marketers, it might be data-driven attribution modeling.
• AI Augmentation: Learn how to leverage generative AI and automation tools to increase your productivity. Understanding how to integrate these technologies into your workflow is becoming a non-negotiable skill.
• Leadership & Strategy: Even in individual contributor roles, the ability to think strategically and lead projects from inception to completion is highly valued. Focus on stakeholder management and high-level project planning.
• Data Literacy: The ability to interpret data and use it to drive decisions is essential across all business functions. Familiarize yourself with data visualization and basic analytical concepts.

By investing in these areas, you not only prepare yourself for the role you are applying for today but also build a resilient foundation for the opportunities of tomorrow.

Apply via JobSetuu

Discover your next career milestone on JobSetuu. This Head of Mergers and Acquisitions - Buy and Build position is part of our commitment to bringing you the most relevant and high-impact job openings globally. At JobSetuu, we simplify your job search by aggregating premier listings and providing the tools you need to stand out. Don't miss the chance to elevate your professional journey—explore more opportunities and career insights on our platform today.