Operational Deal Services Associate Director

GRANT THORNTON; London; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading consulting firm seeks an Associate Director for its Operational Deal Services team in London. The role involves managing client relationships, leading teams, and ensuring project success within a dynamic environment. Ideal candidates will possess significant advisory experience, particularly in lending and insurance sectors, and demonstrate strong analytical and communication skills.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent required.
• Experience in operational deal services jurisdictions.
• Ability to lead teams effectively.

Responsibilities

• Lead client relationships and project delivery.
• Analyze complex information and provide client solutions.
• Support the training and development of team members.

Skills

Analytical skills

Project management

Change management

Communication skills

Networking

Education

Bachelor's degree

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Job ID: R1033571

Job type: Permanent

Time type: Full time

Categories: Deals Advisory & Consulting

More than you expected

The UK member firms of Grant Thornton are part of a global network of independent audit, tax, and advisory firms, made up of over 76,000 professionals in more than 150 countries. We are a team of independent thinkers who prioritize quality, inclusion, and integrity. Globally, we bring diverse experiences to our clients—delivering expertise in a personal, proactive, and agile manner. That's Grant Thornton.

Job Description:

MORE THAN YOU EXPECTED

Grant Thornton UK LLP is part of a global network of independent audit, tax, and advisory firms, comprising around 58,000 people across over 135 countries. We are committed to delivering a different, better experience to our clients—personal, proactive, and agile.

OUR WORK MAKES A DIFFERENCE

Our Operational Deal Services team advises clients on operational aspects of transactions and helps maximize their value. We support clients with designing and implementing organization-wide change programs that create sustainable legacies beyond the deal. We pride ourselves on providing insights during the pre-deal phase and becoming transformation partners during and after transactions, helping solve complex problems effectively.

We work on transactions ranging from owner-managed business sales to mergers exceeding £billion, supporting carve outs, synergy assessments, integrations, operational due diligence, and post-deal operational improvements. Our work is primarily UK-based with an international dimension, collaborating closely with other Grant Thornton international firms.

We are open to flexible working arrangements, including reduced hours and job sharing, to help balance work and life.

About the Role

As an Associate Director in our Operational Deal Services team, you will:

1. Lead client relationships for various project sizes, overseeing delivery, client meetings, workshops, and report drafting.
2. Interpret complex information, identify business issues, and apply technical knowledge to provide solutions.
3. Create a positive team environment and demonstrate leadership, actively contributing to team efforts.
4. Prepare sales proposals and pitches, leveraging your external network to generate opportunities.
5. Promote understanding of Grant Thornton’s services, support cross-selling, and raise awareness of Operational Deal Services.
6. Support training and development of team members, providing feedback and guidance.
7. Assist Directors and Partners with departmental operations, internal initiatives, and delegation.
8. Manage project budgets and monitor costs.

Candidate Profile

To be successful, you should have:

• A bachelor’s degree or equivalent.
• Significant experience in two or more core Operational Deal Services, with focus on sub-sectors like specialist lending, insurance, or investment management.
• Proven leadership in complex, fast-paced environments.
• Experience working in professional services or advisory roles on transactions.
• Strong report writing, analysis, and presentation skills.
• Excellent English communication skills.
• Project, change, or transformation management skills.
• Strong analytical capabilities.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, especially PowerPoint and Excel.

Nice to have:

• Foreign language skills.
• Finance or accountancy qualifications.
• Programme management certification.

Why Join Us?

We foster an inclusive culture that values diversity and respects all colleagues. Our open environment encourages interaction with leadership and supports bringing your whole self to work. We believe in work-life balance, offering flexible working options. Beyond the job, you'll have opportunities to give back through secondments, charity initiatives, and supporting entrepreneurs globally. Our values—purposefully driven, curious, candid yet kind—guide us in doing the right thing. We seek individuals eager to contribute, innovate, and exceed expectations.