Mergers and Acquisitions Specialist

I am partnering with a growing global food manufacturing organization that is expanding its presence across North America through strategic acquisitions. As part of this growth, the company is looking to add an M&A Integration Specialist to support both the transaction process and the successful integration of newly acquired businesses. This role sits within the Americas M&A and Transformation team and works closely with senior leadership across finance, operations, procurement, R&D, and commercial teams. The position provides exposure to the entire M&A lifecycle, from deal evaluation and financial analysis through post-acquisition integration and operational improvement. Unlike traditional finance-only roles, this position requires someone who enjoys spending time in manufacturing environments, working directly with operating teams to help drive integration, efficiency, and long-term value creation. Key Responsibilities M&A Transaction Support Assist in the end-to-end execution of acquisitions within the food ingredients and food manufacturing sectors Conduct financial modeling, valuation analysis, and business case development Support due diligence efforts across financial, operational, and commercial areas Identify and assess potential risks during the transaction process Coordinate with external advisors, including investment banks, legal advisors, tax specialists, and transaction service providers Prepare investment materials, financial presentations, and internal documentation for leadership review Support the negotiation process and documentation during deal execution Typical deal activity includes approximately two acquisitions per year. Post-Merger Integration & Value Creation Assist in planning and executing integration initiatives for newly acquired businesses Work alongside operational leadership to support manufacturing performance improvements, procurement efficiencies, pricing strategy, and margin enhancement Analyze operational and financial performance to identify value creation opportunities Track integration milestones and report progress to leadership Participate in short- to mid-term onsite assignments at acquired manufacturing facilities Strategic & Operational Projects Conduct strategic and operational performance analysis across the business Support cost optimization initiatives and procurement synergies Assist with manufacturing footprint and capacity planning analysis Contribute to the implementation of best practices across multiple production facilities Experience Approximately 3 years of experience in one of the following areas: Investment Banking (M&A) Transaction Services Private Equity Corporate Development Experience working on completed M&A transactions Exposure to manufacturing, food production, or industrial businesses is strongly preferred Experience supporting post-merger integration or operational improvement initiatives is highly valued Skills & Mindset Strong financial modeling and analytical capabilities Understanding of manufacturing operations and cost structures Advanced proficiency in Excel and strong PowerPoint presentation skills Hands-on, practical, and solution-oriented approach Comfortable working with both executive leadership and plant-level teams Highly curious, adaptable, and eager to learn Willingness to travel approximately 30%, including visits to manufacturing facilities Additional Information Location: Oak Brook, Illinois Travel: Approximately 30% travel across North America Opportunity to work directly on strategic acquisitions within a rapidly growing global food manufacturing organization

Created: 2026-03-18