Head of Mergers and Acquisitions

Axon Moore; Leeds; On-site; GBP 100,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

A private equity-backed business in Leeds is seeking a talented Head of M&A to lead the identification, assessment, and execution of strategic acquisitions. Responsibilities include managing potential acquisition targets, leading due diligence processes, and collaborating with legal advisors. The ideal candidate has a proven track record in executing M&A transactions, is a qualified accountant, and possesses advanced skills in financial modelling and stakeholder engagement. This is an exceptional opportunity to shape the future of a market-leading business.

Qualifications

• Proven track record of executing M&A transactions.
• Experience in a corporate, advisory, or private equity environment.
• Advanced skills in financial modelling and valuation.

Responsibilities

• Develop and manage a pipeline of potential acquisition targets.
• Lead due diligence processes.
• Build robust financial models and valuations.

Skills

M&A transaction execution

Financial modelling

Stakeholder engagement

Strategic analysis

Education

Qualified accountant

Job description

Head of M&A

Leeds, Yorkshire

We are working with a high-growth, private equity-backed business seeking to appoint a talented Head of M&A. The business is on an exciting trajectory of organic and acquisitive growth, having already built the largest independent service provider in its sector.

As Head of M&A, you will lead the identification, assessment, and execution of strategic acquisitions and partnerships aligned to the company’s objectives. You will work closely with the Executive Team to evaluate target companies, drive transaction execution, and manage post-acquisition integration.

Responsibilities will include:

• Develop and manage a pipeline of potential acquisition targets
• Lead due diligence processes - commercial, financial, legal, and operational
• Build robust financial models and valuations to assess strategic fit and deal viability
• Collaborate with legal advisors to structure and negotiate deal terms and documentation
• Prepare Board-level presentations and investment committee papers
• Coordinate cross-functional teams to ensure seamless integration of acquired businesses
• Monitor and report on post-acquisition performance and synergy realization
• Identify and evaluate potential divestments or JV opportunities where applicable

The ideal candidate:

• Proven track record of executing M&A transactions in a corporate, advisory, or private equity environment (ideally mid-market UK)
• Qualified accountant
• Experience of working within a complex organisation providing a number of service lines in a business to business environment
• Advanced skills in financial modelling, valuation, and strategic analysis
• Excellent stakeholder engagement and influencing skills - from owners of small family businesses to board-level executives
• Highly organised, with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously

This is an exceptional opportunity to be a key player in shaping the future of a market-leading business, working closely with senior leadership on high-impact strategic initiatives.