Managing Director - Head of Mergers & Acquisitions
Job Summary
The Managing Director - Head of Mergers & Acquisitions will lead and oversee the firm's M&A advisory practice, driving all aspects of deal origination, client coverage, and transaction execution. This senior leadership role requires a proven M&A dealmaker with extensive experience advising clients on complex buy‑side and sell‑side transactions, deep client relationships, and a demonstrated ability to build and scale a high‑performing team. The Managing Director - Head of M&A will set the strategic direction for the practice while ensuring best‑in‑class execution and consistent revenue growth.
Key Responsibilities
Leadership & Practice Management
- Lead and manage the firm's M&A group, setting strategic priorities and driving overall platform growth.
- Recruit, develop, and mentor M&A bankers across all levels, fostering a collaborative, high‑performance culture.
- Establish execution standards and ensure full compliance with regulatory and internal policies.
- Represent the M&A practice in senior leadership discussions and strategic planning initiatives.
Client Relationship Management
- Build and maintain strong relationships with corporate executives, founders, private equity firms, venture investors, and strategic acquirers.
- Lead business development efforts by originating new mandates and expanding existing client relationships.
- Serve as the senior advisor throughout M&A processes, providing trusted strategic guidance on valuation, negotiations, and transaction alternatives.
Transaction Execution
- Oversee end‑to‑end execution of buy‑side and sell‑side M&A transactions, including due diligence, valuation, strategic analysis, and deal structuring.
- Guide the preparation of confidential information memoranda, management presentations, financial models, and other transaction materials.
- Lead negotiations with counterparties and coordinate closely with legal, tax, accounting, and internal teams to ensure smooth execution and optimal outcomes.
- Provide thought leadership on strategic positioning, competitive dynamics, and market trends impacting deal processes.
Market Analysis & Strategic Direction
- Monitor M&A market activity, valuation trends, sector dynamics, and macroeconomic drivers.
- Develop and refine the firm's M&A growth strategy to align with industry trends and client demand.
- Provide market insights and strategic recommendations to firm leadership, including competitive positioning and long‑term business development priorities.
Financial & Business Performance
- Own P&L for the M&A practice, driving revenue growth, profitability, and operational efficiency.
- Manage budgets, resource allocation, and staffing plans.
- Prepare and present performance updates, pipeline reviews, and strategic recommendations to senior leadership and stakeholders.
Qualifications
Education
- Bachelor's degree in Finance, Business, Economics, or related field required.
- MBA or advanced degree preferred.
Experience
- 12-20+ years of investment banking or M&A advisory experience, with deep experience leading complex transactions.
- Proven ability to source deals, manage senior‑level client relationships, and negotiate major transactions.
- Demonstrated leadership experience running a team or practice area.
- Strong transaction execution background across multiple sectors (or sector specialization, if applicable).
Skills
- Exceptional strategic thinking and commercial judgment.
- Advanced knowledge of valuation techniques, negotiation strategies, and transaction structuring.
- Outstanding communication, presentation, and client‑facing skills.
- Ability to lead, inspire, and develop high‑performing teams.
- High level of integrity, professionalism, and leadership presence.
Location: Chicago, IL or New York City, NY
FAQs
Congratulations, we understand that taking the time to apply is a big step. When you apply, your details go directly to the consultant who is sourcing talent. Due to demand, we may not get back to all applicants that have applied. However, we always keep your CV and details on file so when we see similar roles or see skillsets that drive growth in organisations, we will always reach out to discuss opportunities.
Yes. Even if this role isn’t a perfect match, applying allows us to understand your expertise and ambitions, ensuring you're on our radar for the right opportunity when it arises.
We also work in several ways, firstly we advertise our roles available on our site, however, often due to confidentiality we may not post all. We also work with clients who are more focused on skills and understanding what is required to future-proof their business.Â
That's why we recommend registering your CV so you can be considered for roles that have yet to be created.Â
Yes, we help with CV and interview preparation. From customised support on how to optimise your CV to interview preparation and compensation negotiations, we advocate for you throughout your next career move.