M & A Project Manager, Corporate Development

We are a leading petrochemical company undergoing a strategic transformation to become a global leader in specialty and high-value chemicals. Our growth strategy is centered on innovation, sustainability, and strategic acquisitions that enhance our technological capabilities and market position. We are building a dynamic Corporate Development team to drive this transformation, and we are seeking a seasoned M&A professional to be a subject matter expert on our team.

Position Summary

The Principal, Corporate Development (M&A) will be a senior driver of our company's M&A strategy. This role is a senior individual contributor position for a subject matter expert in chemical industry M&A. This individual will be responsible for the end-to-end transaction process, from identifying and evaluating potential acquisition targets to leading due diligence, structuring deals, and supporting post-merger integration. The ideal candidate will have a deep background in investment banking or corporate development within the chemical industry and possess the analytical rigor and strategic mindset to execute complex transactions with a high degree of autonomy.

Key Responsibilities

• Deal Sourcing & Strategy: Proactively identify and screen potential M&A opportunities in the specialty and high-value chemical sectors. Conduct in-depth market research and competitive analysis to refine acquisition strategy.
• Financial Analysis & Valuation: Develop and maintain complex financial models, including discounted cash flow (DCF), comparable company analysis, and precedent transaction analysis to support valuation and investment decisions.
• Due Diligence: Lead and coordinate cross-functional due diligence teams (including commercial, operational, legal, and financial) to thoroughly assess risks and opportunities of potential targets.
• Transaction Execution: Structure and negotiate transaction terms. Prepare and present investment memorandums, financial analyses, and strategic recommendations to senior executive leadership and the Board of Directors.
• Integration Support: Collaborate with the integration management office to ensure a smooth transition of acquired businesses and the realization of deal synergies.
• Market Intelligence: Maintain a robust network of industry contacts, including investment bankers, consultants, and industry executives, to stay ahead of market trends and opportunities.

Qualifications & Experience

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Economics, Business Administration, or a related field. An MBA is strongly preferred.
• Experience: A minimum of 7-10 years of progressive experience in investment banking, corporate development, private equity, or transaction advisory services.
• Industry Background: Direct experience in the chemical, petrochemical, or materials science industry is essential. Specific exposure to specialty chemicals is highly advantageous.
• Technical Skills: Expert-level proficiency in financial modeling, valuation, and deal structuring. Strong understanding of accounting principles and legal aspects of M&A.
• Soft Skills:
  • Exceptional analytical and problem-solving abilities.
  • Proven negotiation and influencing skills.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly and concisely to executive audiences.
  • High level of initiative and ability to manage multiple complex projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.
  • Proven ability to operate with a high degree of autonomy and influence stakeholders at all levels of the organization.