Managing Director - Head of Mergers & Acquisitions | Chicago, IL, USA | Hybrid

Job Summary The Managing Director - Head of Mergers & Acquisitions will lead and oversee the firm's M&A advisory practice, driving all aspects of deal origination, client coverage, and transaction execution. This senior leadership role requires a proven M&A dealmaker with extensive experience advising clients on complex buy‑side and sell‑side transactions, deep client relationships, and a demonstrated ability to build and scale a high‑performing team. The Managing Director - Head of M&A will set the strategic direction for the practice while ensuring best‑in‑class execution and consistent revenue growth. Key Responsibilities Leadership & Practice Management • Lead and manage the firm's M&A group, setting strategic priorities and driving overall platform growth. • Recruit, develop, and mentor M&A bankers across all levels, fostering a collaborative, high‑performance culture. • Establish execution standards and ensure full compliance with regulatory and internal policies. • Represent the M&A practice in senior leadership discussions and strategic planning initiatives. Client Relationship Management • Build and maintain strong relationships with corporate executives, founders, private equity firms, venture investors, and strategic acquirers. • Lead business development efforts by originating new mandates and expanding existing client relationships. • Serve as the senior advisor throughout M&A processes, providing trusted strategic guidance on valuation, negotiations, and transaction alternatives. Transaction Execution • Oversee end‑to‑end execution of buy‑side and sell‑side M&A transactions, including due diligence, valuation, strategic analysis, and deal structuring. • Guide the preparation of confidential information memoranda, management presentations, financial models, and other transaction materials. • Lead negotiations with counterparties and coordinate closely with legal, tax, accounting, and internal teams to ensure smooth execution and optimal outcomes. • Provide thought leadership on strategic positioning, competitive dynamics, and market trends impacting deal processes. Market Analysis & Strategic Direction • Monitor M&A market activity, valuation trends, sector dynamics, and macroeconomic drivers. • Develop and refine the firm's M&A growth strategy to align with industry trends and client demand. • Provide market insights and strategic recommendations to firm leadership, including competitive positioning and long‑term business development priorities. Financial & Business Performance • Own P&L for the M&A practice, driving revenue growth, profitability, and operational efficiency. • Manage budgets, resource allocation, and staffing plans. • Prepare and present performance updates, pipeline reviews, and strategic recommendations to senior leadership and stakeholders. Qualifications Education • Bachelor's degree in Finance, Business, Economics, or related field required. • MBA or advanced degree preferred. Experience • 12-20+ years of investment banking or M&A advisory experience, with deep experience leading complex transactions. • Proven ability to source deals, manage senior‑level client relationships, and negotiate major transactions. • Demonstrated leadership experience running a team or practice area. • Strong transaction execution background across multiple sectors (or sector specialization, if applicable). Skills • Exceptional strategic thinking and commercial judgment. • Advanced knowledge of valuation techniques, negotiation strategies, and transaction structuring. • Outstanding communication, presentation, and client‑facing skills. • Ability to lead, inspire, and develop high‑performing teams. • High level of integrity, professionalism, and leadership presence. Location: Chicago, IL or New York City, NY