M&A Manager

NextStep is a digital, AI-first career platform dedicated to helping top-performing consultants navigate career transitions. By leveraging a data-driven approach, NextStep matches professionals with high-fit opportunities while enabling companies to connect with exceptional talent. The platform is developed in collaboration with Consulting Comedy, the largest consulting-focused community globally, boasting 1M+ subscribers.

On behalf of our partner network, we're recruiting an M&A Manager in San Francisco.

M&A Manager - San Francisco

Salary Range: $130,000 - $175,000 annually , depending on experience and qualifications.

What you'll be responsible for:

As M&A Manager, you'll find the companies worth buying, figure out what they're really worth, and make the deals happen. You will:

• Identify acquisition targets that fit the growth strategy
• Run due diligence to uncover what's actually going on behind the sales pitch (the financials, the customers, the risks)
• Build valuation models and deal structures that make financial sense
• Negotiate terms with sellers, lawyers, and advisors to get deals closed
• Present recommendations to leadership and the Board on which deals to pursue and why
• Lead integration planning so the acquisition actually delivers value after day one
• Manage relationships with investment banks, PE firms, and brokers to keep deal flow coming
• Jump into urgent strategic questions beyond M&A when the company needs it

You'll be a strong match if you have:

• Previous experience in consulting (MBB, Big 4, or boutique firms)
• 4-6+ years in M&A, corporate development, investment banking, or private equity
• A track record of closing deals, from initial outreach to signed contracts
• Strong financial modelling skills (DCF, LBO, comps) and the ability to spot what's realistic vs. optimistic
• Experience running due diligence and knowing which questions to ask to uncover issues
• Comfortable managing multiple deals at once while keeping all the details straight

If you've built your career in consulting and are ready to transition into M&A and corporate development roles in the industry, multiple companies in our network are likely looking for you. 

How to apply:

• Step 1: Submit your application.
• Step 2: You'll receive an invite to join the NextStep platform.
• Step 3: Complete your profile and get matched with the best-fit companies and opportunities in our partner network.

Please note: If your background is a strong match for this specific role, we'll connect you with the hiring company for next steps. If this particular role isn't the right fit, we'll continue matching you with similar opportunities that align with your expertise, industry preferences, and career goals.