Global M&A Lead

Unilever; United Kingdom; Hybrid; GBP 100,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading consumer goods company is looking for a Global M&A Lead to maximize value from mergers and acquisitions by establishing a framework for successful integration and separation of supply chain operations. The ideal candidate will have 10-15 years of experience, strong financial and analytical skills, and the ability to communicate effectively with senior stakeholders. This role offers flexible working options and the chance to work within a diverse team.

Benefits

Flexible working options

Diversity and inclusion initiatives

Relocation cost reimbursement

Qualifications

• 10-15 years of experience, including finance and business case exposure.
• Ability to bridge finance and non-finance communication.
• Experience working with external consultancies and senior stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Develop & lead the M&A strategy for relevant Business Groups.
• Collaborate with BG leadership teams to prepare business plans.
• Lead acquisitions and divestments with external stakeholders.

Skills

Financial and analytical skills

Program management skills

Effective communication

Management and judgment skills

Interpersonal skills for cross-cultural teamwork

Job description

Time left to apply: End Date: August 18, 2025 (11 days left to apply)

Job requisition id: R-85204

Please Note: The deadline for applying is 23.59 the day before the job posting end date.

Job Title: Global M&A Lead

Location: 100VE

Work-Level: 3X

Improving long-term, sustainable topline growth has been a focus for Unilever in recent years, with portfolio rotation playing a key role. Evolving Unilever’s portfolio towards higher growth brands and categories with favorable consumer tailwinds is central to Unilever’s value creation model. The M&A team sources new acquisition opportunities, identifies potential disposals through analysis, and ensures A&R processes meet high standards.

JOB PURPOSE

Maximize value from M&A by establishing a framework for the successful integration/separation of Supply Chain operations based on transaction size and complexity. Lead SC workstream on key transactions, building processes for cross-functional alignment in M&A execution.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Develop & lead the M&A strategy for relevant Business Groups, ensuring alignment with business/ BGs vision and financial metrics.
• Identify and explore potential collaborations, acquisitions, and divestments aligned with the company’s strategy.
• Ensure all deals support BG’s long-term growth strategy.
• Collaborate with BG President, CFO, leadership teams, and Business Units to prepare business plans and financial forecasts, and communicate strategic rationale to senior stakeholders.
• Proactively manage portfolios, especially divestments to reduce complexity.
• Maintain an external network within the industry and investment banks to respond quickly to M&A opportunities.
• Lead acquisitions and divestments with external stakeholders, working with banks/brokers and approaching target companies.
• Manage project budgets during transactions.
• Ensure compliance with Finance’s processes and standards.
• Work with the M&A integration team during due diligence to maximize synergies.

ALL ABOUT YOU

• 10-15 years of experience, including finance and business case exposure.
• Strong financial and analytical skills.
• Program management skills.
• Effective communication of strategy and business case to senior stakeholders, with strong presentation skills.
• Ability to bridge finance and non-finance communication, describing financial context clearly.
• Excellent management, judgment, and risk management skills, with a holistic business view.
• Interpersonal skills for cross-cultural teamwork, influencing, and relationship building.
• Well-developed internal and external network.
• Experience working with external consultancies and senior stakeholders.

NOTES

Please apply via this portal; email applications may not be processed. Include your Future Fit Plan if possible.

By applying, you confirm your line manager is aware, and you are at an appropriate career stage for this application.

For additional info or reasonable adjustments, contact Talent Partner Sophie Whall at [e-mail].

What we offer

While advertised as full-time, flexible working options are available. We promote a family-friendly, inclusive workplace, embracing diversity and providing reasonable adjustments during application and interview processes. Learn more about our Employee Resource Groups at Equity, Diversity & Inclusion (unilever.com).

Location

Unilever plans to consolidate offices into Kingston-upon-Thames by early 2025, but as of August 8, 2024, the proposal is to retain the London HQ at 100 Victoria Embankment until 2027. The final location will be confirmed after consultation.

Relocation to the UK

Applicants from outside the UK should note that successful candidates will undergo a self-initiated CLOC transfer, with relocation costs potentially reimbursed up to £5,000 upon approval. Contact your Talent Partner for details.

About Us

We are a leading consumer goods company with iconic brands and a sustainable vision, serving over two billion people daily. Join us if you’re ambitious, eager to learn, and ready to lead. Visit our website and apply to be part of our diverse team.