Head of M&A Deal Execution

Company: AkzoNobel

Head of M&A Deal Execution

Job Purpose

The Head of M&A Deal Execution is responsible for managing (pre-deal) transactional and operational activities. The role involves end-to-end ownership of the M&A Project Management process to deliver efficient deal execution for (bolt-on) acquisitions, divestments, and joint ventures. This includes leading and managing the cross-functional M&A Process, such as business case and cost synergy development, assessment of valuation with the M&A finance controller, negotiations, collaborating with Legal on documentation, and management of internal and external stakeholders (e.g., advisors). The individual plays a key role in enabling high-quality M&A execution by using strong collaboration and influence management skills across business and functional teams. This role also requires strong personal communication skills and involves high-exposure communication at the executive level.

Responsibilities

• Define and lead the end-to-end M&A process for bolt-on acquisitions, divestments, or joint ventures (typical deal sizes EUR 50 – 500m Enterprise value).
• Effectively execute high-impact M&A projects across business units and corporate functions.
• Lead and manage end-to-end M&A project management processes, including target screening, due diligence coordination, business case and cost synergy development, assessment of valuation in combination with the M&A Finance controller, legal documents, and internal stakeholder alignment.
• Manage external advisors as required during the transaction processes (investment bankers, law firms, financial due diligence/tax, other consultants).
• Utilize influence management skills to effectively manage internal stakeholders (Legal, Finance, and other functional and business stakeholders) during the transaction process.
• Identify and resolve critical alignment and operational issues during deal execution.
• Communicate effectively with executive stakeholders, including delivery to ExCo through presentations, meetings, updates, etc.
• Handle sensitive information with strict confidentiality.
• Provide direction to junior team members, actively coach and support their development.

Requirements

• Master’s degree in Business, Economics, Finance, Engineering, Science, or a related field.
• 8 – 12 years of direct experience leading full M&A project execution for deal sizes ranging between EUR 50 – 400m Enterprise value (e.g., top-tier consultancy, investment banking, or Corporate Development with M&A experience).
• Proven experience and track record leading and delivering bolt-on M&A transactions, divestments, or joint ventures end-to-end (must provide a 3-5 year Deal sheet summarizing completed M&A transactions in addition to CV).
• Previous commercial business experience to support M&A deal execution is a strong plus.
• Strong conceptual and structured thinking skills; able to break down complex issues into actionable insights.
• Excellent stakeholder management, influence management, and communication skills, including with (top) executive-level audiences.
• High level of discretion and professional integrity.
• Familiarity with legal aspects of M&A and experience in participating in clean teams.
• Demonstrated ability to guide and coach junior colleagues.
• Fluent in English (written and spoken).