Director - Private Equity Performance Improvement - Operations - France

Description

About Alvarez & Marsal

Alvarez & Marsal (A&M) is a global consulting firm with entrepreneurial, action and results‑oriented professionals. We take a hands‑on approach to solving our clients’ problems and assisting them in reaching their potential. Our culture celebrates independent thinkers and doers who positively impact our clients and shape our industry. The collaborative environment and engaging work—guided by A&M’s core values of Integrity, Quality, Objectivity, Fun, Personal Reward, and Inclusive Diversity—are what our people love working at A&M.

About the role

Within our established and highly regarded Private Equity Performance Improvement team, an opportunity exists for an Operational Due Diligence (ODD) specialist at the Director level. The opportunity will allow you to be based in our Paris office or you can be based in our London office but must allow for weekly travel to France. We are looking to hire someone who has a successful track record with a blend of operational and commercial skills, an entrepreneurial approach and networks across the M&A community.

Supported by the European Private Equity Performance Improvement team, you will help build the profile and reputation of A&M PEPI in France, specifically in the key speciality of ODD. You will reflect the operational distinctiveness that is A&M; a business‑savvy, solution‑focused business entrepreneur who is determined to make a difference and not afraid to challenge the status‑quo. The Director will deliver both interim and advisory assignments in Pre and Post Deal.

How you will contribute

• Operational due diligence, 100‑day planning, post‑merger integration and performance improvement;
• Advising and implementing performance improvement programs for major corporations across a wide range of industry sectors;
• Evaluating both cost reduction and revenue enhancement opportunities;
• Leading the post‑acquisition work to ensure the ODD was realized in full and in the shortest possible time;
• Developing detailed and robust methodology to ensure that the first 100 days create total clarity and ownership throughout the organization, a clear path to delivering the growth and cost reduction developed and the identified quick wins delivered;
• Encompassing the 100‑day planning process the merger of two organizations for which a specific methodology has been developed;
• Support delivery of projects with private equity owned businesses to assess opportunities to improve their financial/operating performance and implement findings and recommendations;
• Work with private equity owned clients through the full spectrum of complex issues that arise in operations, including manufacturing, supply chain management, logistics and purchasing;
• Contribute strongly to business development activity including developing successful pitches and selling, from the initial “diagnostic” project phase into implementation work;
• Initial rapid diagnostic into a company’s immediate and future major operational issues, product profitability, cost base, manufacturing processes and options for performance improvement;
• Supporting PE firms to ensure their portfolio companies have credible plans and the ability to execute and deliver the financial results required;
• Developing and implementing a new operating plan to improve the business operational performance.

Skills and Experience

Essential:

• Must have extensive knowledge of Operational Due Diligence (ideally in a client‑site focused delivery model) in a top‑tier strategy firm, leading specialist and/or niche advisory firm or “Big4” consultancy;
• Recent, relevant experience in International Operations, including manufacturing, supply chain management, purchasing and logistics (ideally within retail, pharma or business services);
• A recent track record of successfully delivering major operational due diligence assignments at pre‑ and post‑deal;
• Must be Private Equity Industry Savvy with established experience of working with Private Equity backed portfolio companies;
• Experience in operational KPIs, balance score cards and a reporting/review process to ensure continuous improvement of the operational performance of the business;
• Understand and execute LEAN production philosophy;
• Lead holistic performance improvement projects, understanding different kinds of Project Management Office (PMO) tools;
• Must have an ability and willingness to travel (potentially from Day 1) to client sites, across the UK & European regions, at short notice as part of the working week;
• A Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university is essential;
• Clear determination to deliver the latest thinking in pre and post deal solutions;
• Fluency to a business level in both English and French is essential;
• Strong analytical skills and deep‑dive analysis;
• Persuasive and effective communicator who can engage effectively with leadership teams in pressure situations.

Desirable:

• MBA or financial qualification preferred but not required;
• Additional European languages are also highly desirable;
• Have a varied cross‑sector background including telecommunications, automotive, manufacturing, energy, retail, consumer goods, transport, business services and health care.

Your journey at A&M

We recognise that our people are the driving force behind our success, which is why we prioritise an employee experience that fosters each person’s unique professional and personal development. Our robust performance development process promotes continuous learning, rewards your contributions, and fosters a culture of meritocracy. With top‑notch training and on‑the‑job learning opportunities, you can acquire new skills and advance your career.

We prioritise your well‑being, providing benefits and resources to support you on your personal journey. Our people consistently highlight the growth opportunities, our unique, entrepreneurial culture, and the fun we have together as their favorite aspects of working at A&M. The possibilities are endless for high‑performing and passionate professionals.