Corporate Development Director – Private Equity backed Professional Services Buy & Build Platform

SJC Partners is managing the recruitment of a Corporate Development Director for a newly established, private equity–backed professional services buy-and-build platform, backed by a major global private equity sponsor, based in Western Europe.

This is a senior, hands-on role at the front end of a new platform build, responsible for originating, executing, and integrating bolt-on acquisitions across Western Europe.

The Role

As Corporate Development Director, you will own and drive the Group’s M&A strategy and execution from day one, playing a central role in building a pan-European platform through disciplined acquisition and integration.
You will lead transactions end-to-end—from sourcing, due diligence, and execution to post-merger integration—working closely with the CEO, the PE sponsor, and senior leadership.

Key Responsibilities:

*Shape and deliver the Group’s M&A strategy in line with the investment thesis
*Originate and execute bolt-on acquisitions (typical EBITDA €1m–€8m)
*Lead the full deal lifecycle: origination, due diligence, execution, and post-merger integration
*Manage and coordinate financial, tax, and legal due diligence processes
*Oversee transaction risk management and deal structuring
*Partner with the CEO and the PE sponsor on strategic initiatives and investment materials

Candidate Profile:

*7–10 years’ deal experience, gained across any mix of Corporate Development, M&A/Investment Banking, Transaction Services (TS), and/or Private Equity
*Proven experience in mid-market transactions and buy-and-build environments
*Hands-on experience managing FDD, tax DD, and legal DD (prior TS/FDD background advantageous)
*Evidence of involvement in establishing or scaling a buy-and-build strategy
*Track record of successfully completed transactions (€10m+ revenue)
*Strong financial modelling, valuation, and commercial analysis skills
*Experience with post-merger integration in PE-backed businesses
*Highly analytical, commercially minded, and comfortable operating at board level
*Fluent English essential; additional European languages (French, German, Dutch, Nordics, Spanish, Italian) highly advantageous

Location

Western Europe-based role with flexibility for remote or hybrid working, depending on candidate preference and local hub access.

Package

A high-impact opportunity within a newly formed, PE-backed platform, offering significant exposure and the potential for management incentive and equity participation at exit.