Head of Corporate Development

The Opportunity

We are partnering with a high-growth, PE-backed businesses on a buy-and-build journey, each seeking a Head of Corporate Development to lead and manage their acquisition pipeline across the UK. Reporting directly to the CFO (and working closely with the CEO and board), the successful candidate will play a pivotal role in identifying, evaluating, and executing strategic M&A opportunities that align with each business’s ambitious growth strategy.
  
This is an ideal opportunity for an individual currently in a commercial M&A role within industry who is looking to take full ownership of the end-to-end acquisition lifecycle in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial setting.
  
Key Responsibilities

• Originate and evaluateacquisition opportunities aligned with strategic growth plans.
• Own and leadthe M&A process end-to-end: from deal sourcing and financial modelling to due diligence, valuation, negotiation, and integration planning.
• Develop and maintainrelationships with advisors, brokers, and potential target businesses across the UK.
• Partner with senior leadershipand the board to prepare investment cases and present recommendations.
• Manage deal execution, coordinating with legal, finance, and operational stakeholders.
• Track market activityand provide insights on trends, competitors, and potential targets.
• Contribute to post-deal integration planning, ensuring smooth operational alignment post-acquisition.

  
Profile Sought

• Qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, or CIMA) with a strong background in corporate finance, transaction services, or M&A advisory.
• Currently working in-house in a corporate development or M&A role within a business that is actively acquiring (preferably in the £1m–£2m EV range).
• Strong financial modelling, commercial acumen, and deal execution skills.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills able to influence at board level and work with founder-led businesses.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple transactions simultaneously.
• UK-wide travel flexibility as required (with all expenses covered).

  
Additional Information

• Location:One role is fully remote (UK-based). The other is hybrid (3 days in office / 2 days WFH). Both require national travel.
• Remuneration:Competitive base salary of £90,000–£110,000 plus annual bonus and participation in a long-term incentive plan (LTIP).