Mergers And Acquisitions Manager
EY - Ernst & Young Global Limited , United Arab Emirates

Our clients are increasingly looking to us to help them plan for growth and analyse all aspects of their overall strategy, which can include inorganic growth. When you join our experienced M&A advisory team, you’ll be at the heart of that challenge, guiding clients through every stage of their transaction lifecycle, be it acquisitions, disposals, management buy-outs, buy-ins, fundraising, initial public offerings, takeovers, mergers and strategic reviews.

The Opportunity

We are looking for an experienced M&A Transactions Advisory professional to join our high performing team. As a M&A Manager, you will assist clients in assessing the strategic fit of a business by analyzing all aspects of a transaction, assessing the projected synergies, project managing the deal cycle, assisting in negotiations, and conducting financial modelling.

You will leverage off an extensive global network, empowering you to provide sector-focused advice on the sale process from strategic positioning to close, and help execute acquisitions, alliances and mergers. You may advise C-suite executives and boards on evaluating strategic alternatives in the context of transactions.

Key responsibilities

You will participate in the execution of transactions across the client portfolio, preparing client reports and key documentation for fund-raising, acquisitions and disposals. You will take an active role in business development activities including involvement in the preparation of pitch books and other marketing materials, and meeting with existing / target clients. You will also be responsible for the following:

• Originate and deliver transaction ideas, identifying opportunities, opening and leveraging relationships
• Project manage the transactions, driving the transaction timetable, ensuring quality on client deliverables, as well as managing counterparties and other advisers to ensure transaction milestones are met
• Understanding the key business drivers as well as predicting, identifying, and managing key issues and risks through insights, factual conclusions and advice
• Lead, develop and counsel junior colleagues, share knowledge, and take an active role in the growth and development of the whole team

Skills and attributes for success

Experience of corporate finance in an investment bank, professional services firm or boutique with a track record of working on both the buy-side and sell-side, as well as finance raising. The role would require strong numerical, financial and modelling skills based on a well-developed understanding of financial statements. You will have sound commercial judgment and an ability to generate creative solutions to problems.

To qualify you must have

• As a minimum, a Bachelor’s degree ideally in a finance related topic or similar from a reputable University
• At least 5 to 7 years’ experience in a M&A environment, including experience playing a key role in executing transactions
• Strong communication, presentation & project management skills
• Proven ability to produce high quality and impactful professional documents for clients and internal use
• Flexibility to travel (approx. 25 to 75%)

Ideally, you will also have

• MBA or Master’s degree in finance (or related field) from a reputable University
• CFA qualification
• Transactions experience in a client facing role within a professional services, investment bank or similar organisation(s)
• GCC experience or working in one of the mature markets
• Experience working in the TMT sector
• Arabic language skills would be an asset

What we look for

We are looking for candidates who are highly motivated, analytical, logical thinkers with a passion for valuations and have a very strong attention to detail. Being a strong team player is critical with the ability to adapt to changing requirements or deadlines in support of our client’s goals.

What working at EY offers

• Support, feedback and coaching from some of the most engaging colleagues in the industry
• Opportunities to develop new skills and progress your career in the MENA region
• Developed system of performance management and career development that enables you to have the freedom and flexibility to handle your role in a way that’s right for you
• Opportunity to work in an international environment

Job Rewards and Benefits