Director - Private Equity Performance Improvement - Operations - France

About Alvarez & Marsal

Alvarez & Marsal (A&M) is a global consulting firm with entrepreneurial, action‑oriented professionals. We take a hands‑on approach to solving our clients' problems and helping them reach 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 why our people love working at A&M.

Description

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 role may be based in our Paris office or in London, with weekly travel to France required. We are looking for someone with a successful track record combining operational and commercial skills, an entrepreneurial approach, and networks across the M&A community.

About The Role

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 specialism of ODD. You will reflect the operational distinctiveness that is A&M: a business‑savvy, solution‑focused entrepreneur 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 settings.

How You Will Contribute

• Operational due diligence, 100‑day planning, post‑merger integration and performance improvement;
• Advising and implementing performance improvement programmes 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 that the ODD was realised in full and in the shortest possible time;
• Developing detailed and robust methodology to ensure that in the first 100 days clarity and ownership are created across the organisation, a clear path is established to deliver growth and cost‑reduction, and identified quick wins are delivered;
• Incorporating the merger of two organisations within the 100‑day planning process using a specific methodology that has been developed;
• Supporting delivery of projects with private equity‑owned businesses to assess opportunities to improve their financial and operating performance and implement findings and recommendations;
• Working with private equity‑owned clients through the full spectrum of complex issues that arise in operations, including manufacturing, supply chain management, logistics and purchasing;
• Contributing strongly to business development activity, developing successful pitches and selling from the initial diagnostic phase into implementation work;
• Conducting an 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.

Essential Skills and Experience

• Extensive knowledge of Operational Due Diligence (ideally in a client‑site focused delivery model) in a top‑tier strategy firm, leading specialist or niche advisory firm, or Big 4 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 level;
• Private Equity industry savvy with established experience of working with private‑equity‑backed portfolio companies;
• Experience in operational KPIs, Balanced Scorecards and a reporting/review process to ensure continuous improvement of business performance;
• Understanding and execution of LEAN production philosophy;
• Lead holistic performance improvement projects, understanding different kinds of project‑management‑office tools;
• Willingness to travel (potentially from day 1) to client sites across the UK and European regions on short notice as part of the working week;
• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university (essential);
• Clear determination to deliver the latest thinking in pre‑ and post‑deal solutions;
• Fluency in English and French at a business level (essential);
• Strong analytical skills and ability for deep‑dive analysis;
• A 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 (highly desirable);
• A varied cross‑sector background, including telecommunications, automotive, manufacturing, energy, retail, consumer goods, transport, business services and healthcare.

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 favourite aspects of working at A&M. The possibilities are endless for high‑performing and passionate professionals.