Associate - M&A Deal Sourcing and Origination

About the company

Our client is a listed international company that acquires vertical market software companies and as perpetual owner for these businesses.

They currently have over 200 independently managed Business Units in over 20 countries globally now expanding in Asia. The company offers target companies financial security, strategic guidance and best practices so that they can be leaders in their respective industry domain.

Context on the Role

Our client is constantly seeking acquisition opportunities to invest in vertical markets software companies and is excited to explore new verticals when great opportunities present themselves. Backed by a strong global track record, the group is now expanding its footprint in India and establishing a focused team in Mumbai to drive its growth in the Indian market.

We are seeking an experienced, high-performing Associate - M&A Deal Sourcing and Origination who can thrive in an entrepreneurial, high-impact environment and preferably have prior frontline experience with financial institutions, investment banking, or related financial services.

Role Overview

The primary objective of this role is to support the company's expansion in the Indian market by identifying high-potential software companies, building a qualified pipeline through targeted outreach, nurture relationships and support in converting opportunities to acquisitions.

The person will report to the Investment Director, India.

Key Responsibilities

1) Lead Generation, Pipeline & Network

• Define ICP (ideal company profile), identify and evaluate through set screening criteria.
• Build & maintain a warm network of founders/CXOs, bankers/boutiques, PE/VC funds, law/tax advisors, and industry bodies (e.g. chambers, relevant sector associations).
• Run disciplined outbound targeted lists, multi-touch outreach, event strategy, and quarterly coverage maps.

2) Screening & Qualification

• Lead initial meetings and discovery, assess strategic fit, deal ability, likely valuation range, and integration complexity.
• Keep CRM immaculate with contacts, call notes, next actions, stage definitions

3) Market Presence & Intelligence

• Create and manage a coverage calendar (conferences, roadshows, banker meets) and a quarterly A/B/C-ranked target list, aligned to company priorities.
• Track competitor moves, valuations, regulatory developments, and buyer/seller sentiment to refine ICPs.

What We're Looking For

• Self-starter, disciplined, target- and relation focussed deal originator
• 2-5 years of experience at an investment bank/PE/Corporate Development or high-stakes B2B Software environment in India (global support or middle-office profiles will not be considered)
• Confident to engage with founders; builds and maintains relationships.
• Ability to analyze financial statements and key business metrics, with a sound grasp of P&L, ownership structures, and primary growth drivers.
• Excellent sales and business acumen
• High energy, entrepreneurial mindset, and strong ownership
• A true team player who thrives in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• MBA / MS Finance / CA / CFA from a premier Indian or global institute
• Strong academic performance track record
• Proficiency in MS Office and other lead generation tools (E.g. Sales Navigator)
• Strong presentation and interpersonal skills