Chief Executive Officer (Operating Partner) – MBI Program in Ireland

Overview

This role offers a distinctive leadership opportunity to become a CEO-owner of a family-owned SME in Ireland through All Interests Aligned's Management Buy-In (MBI) Program. Focused on Ireland's business ecosystem, this position targets candidates with firmly established professional roots in the region. The post provides comprehensive support and investor backing throughout each phase of acquisition and company ownership.

Key Responsibilities

• Identify and evaluate promising SME acquisition targets with strategic and financial assistance from AIA, while receiving compensation during this stage.
• Collaborate with AIA investment experts on rigorous due diligence, valuation, and deal structuring to finalize acquisition agreements.
• Transition into the CEO role, executing a structured handover and building vital relationships with stakeholders.
• Oversee company operations, guided by AIA in governance, compliance, reporting, and developing value-driven growth strategies.
• Develop and implement an exit strategy alongside AIA to maximize returns and secure the business’s long-term sustainability.

Investment Focus and Criteria

AIA targets cash-generating, owner-operated SMEs across multiple sectors including:

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

Ideal acquisitions feature enterprise sales between €10 million and €40 million, steady free cash flow exceeding 10% of sales, consistent or stable growth, and a robust competitive edge in underserved markets.

Candidate Selection Process

Admission involves a comprehensive multi-stage evaluation comprising leadership assessments, extensive interviews, business case development, an investment thesis, and a final presentation to a panel of AIA leaders and independent experts. This process typically spans 15–17 weeks with 35–40 hours of preparation required.

Candidate Requirements

• At least 5 years’ experience in a general management position with full profit and loss responsibility, coupled with 10 to 15 years of professional experience beyond undergraduate studies.
• Practical operating experience is essential; candidates should have direct operational accountability, not solely financial services, banking, private equity, or consulting backgrounds.
• Demonstrated expertise and proven success within sectors aligned to AIA’s investment focus, across both corporate and SME environments.
• Strong regional knowledge of Ireland including fluency in its language, culture, economy, and a well-established professional network.
• Entrepreneurial traits such as resilience, resourcefulness, and capability to overcome significant challenges to deliver desirable business results.
• Emotional preparedness for senior leadership, with a clear vision for growth and a commitment to making a lasting impact.
• A balanced ambition combining humility with strong drive, understanding how partnership with AIA can accelerate both personal and business achievements through collaboration.