Job Description M&A Manager – PE-Backed Roll-Up (Sussex) Target Salary: £70k base bonus The Opportunity We’re working with a fast-growing PE-backed platform business in Sussex, pursuing an ambitious roll-up strategy across services, education, and healthcare. This is a hands-on, execution-focused M&A role, ideal for a current number two or senior corporate development professional ready to step into a position reporting directly to the CFO. You will lead transactions end-to-end, from initial evaluation and LOI through to SPA negotiation, due diligence, and post-deal integration, driving the company’s acquisitive growth agenda. Responsibilities Lead all aspects of M&A execution, including LOI preparation, SPA negotiation, due diligence coordination, and transaction close. Prepare financial models, valuations, and investment papers to support senior leadership and investor decisions. Conduct market and sector research, identifying acquisition opportunities and potential targets. Coordinate internal and external teams, including advisors, legal, finance, and operational stakeholders. Support integration planning and post-deal performance tracking to ensure value delivery. Provide input on deal strategy and commercial terms to optimise returns and mitigate risk. Your Profile Degree in finance, business, economics, or a related field. 4–7 years’ experience in M&A, corporate development, or senior transaction advisory, ideally with some in-house/corporate development exposure. Proven track record executing deals in a fast-paced environment, including LOI, SPA, financial due diligence, and integration. Strong financial modelling, valuation, and analytical skills. Commercially minded, with the ability to influence and work closely with senior leadership and investors. Excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills. Comfortable leading multi-disciplinary teams and coordinating complex transactions. Why This Role? This is a rare opportunity to step into a high-impact, execution-focused M&A role in a PE-backed platform business. You will work directly with the CFO and senior leadership, shaping and delivering the company’s growth through acquisitions while gaining full exposure to the deal lifecycle in a fast-growing, dynamic environment.