Chief Executive Officer – Management Buy-In Program (Operating Partner) – Ireland

Overview

The Irish economy is driven by global tech and pharmaceutical giants, yet acquiring stakes in local family-owned SMEs as a career shift remains a novel path. This opportunity offers candidates entrenched in Ireland's business environment the chance to become CEO-owners of thriving SMEs through All Interests Aligned's (AIA) Management Buy-In (MBI) Program, supported by experienced entrepreneurial investors.

Role and Journey

As a CEO (Operating Partner) in the MBI Program, you will lead the purchase and management of a family-owned SME in Ireland experiencing succession challenges. You'll receive comprehensive support from AIA at every stage:

• Origination: Identify and evaluate acquisition targets with financial and strategic backing, receiving compensation during this phase to maintain financial security as you build your pipeline.
• Deal Closing: Collaborate with AIA's investment team to conduct due diligence, valuation, and deal structuring to consummate acquisitions.
• Transition: Assume the CEO position following a structured handover and relationship development with key stakeholders.
• Operation: Oversee company operations backed by AIA's governance, reporting, and compliance expertise to implement value-driven growth strategies.
• Exit: Formulate and execute exit plans jointly with AIA to optimize returns and secure the business's sustainable future.

Target Industries & Investment Preferences

AIA focuses on cash-positive, owner-managed SMEs within these sectors:

• Consumer Products (Food & Beverage only)
• Industrial Goods
• Facilities Management
• Testing, Inspection, and Certification (TIC)
• Energy, Utilities & Environment
• Chemicals & Materials
• Transportation & Logistics
• Wellness & Nutrition (Human & Animal)
• Adult Learning

Ideal candidates target businesses with:

• Annual sales between €10 million and €40 million
• A sustained record of free cash flow equating to at least 10% of sales
• Stable or established growth and a competitive edge in underserved markets

Selection and Admission Process

The program's admission is selective and comprehensive, spanning approximately 15–17 weeks. It includes leadership evaluations, intensive interviews, business case development, an investment thesis formulation, and culminates in a presentation before AIA leaders and external experts. Preparation requires 35–40 hours.

Candidate Requirements

• Minimum 5 years' experience in a general management role with complete P&L responsibility, combined with at least 10–15 years of post-graduate professional experience.
• Hands-on operational leadership background; candidates from financial services, banking, private equity, or consulting lacking direct P&L accountability are not suitable.
• Proven success and deep expertise in a sector aligned with AIA's investment focus, applicable across corporates and SMEs.
• Strong local ties and fluency in the Irish business culture and language, supported by a robust understanding of the regional economy and network.
• Entrepreneurial mindset demonstrating resilience, resourcefulness, and capability to navigate complex challenges to achieve outcomes.
• Emotional preparedness for a leadership role, possessing a clear vision and dedication to meaningful impact.
• Balanced ambition combining humility with strong personal drive, recognizing how partnering with AIA accelerates mutual success through purposeful collaboration.