Managing Director - Financial Sponsors Coverage

KeyPartners

The Managing Director (MD) will lead the firm’s Financial Sponsors Coverage within the M&A division, developing and managing strategic relationships with private equity firms, alternative asset managers, and institutional investors. The MD is responsible for originating and executing high-impact M&A transactions, driving business development efforts, and providing senior-level leadership to the deal team.

Key Responsibilities

1. Origination of M&A mandates by maintaining deep relationships with financial sponsors (private equity, infrastructure funds, family offices, etc.).
2. Act as the primary point of contact for a portfolio of sponsors, understanding their investment strategies and proactively pitching deal opportunities (buy-side, sell-side, portfolio monetizations, add-ons).
3. Collaborate with sector and product teams to deliver tailored investment banking solutions to clients.
4. Lead transaction execution, including deal structuring, negotiation, valuation, and due diligence coordination.
5. Guide junior and mid-level bankers (VP, Associate, Analyst) ensuring excellence in pitch and execution materials.
6. Represent the firm in high-level client meetings, industry events, and internal committees.
7. Drive cross-border deal flow, leveraging the firm’s international network where applicable.
8. Contribute to the strategic direction of the M&A franchise, supporting hiring, training, and performance management within the team.

Requirements

1. 10–15 years of experience in investment banking with a strong focus on M&A and financial sponsors.
2. Proven track record of deal origination and execution with private equity clients.
3. Deep network of relationships in the private capital ecosystem.
4. Strong technical skills: financial modeling, valuation, and strategic analysis.
5. Excellent negotiation, communication, and leadership abilities.
6. Entrepreneurial mindset with ability to build and grow business lines.
7. Advanced degree in Finance, Economics, Business or related field. MBA or CFA a plus.
8. Fluency in English; other languages are a plus depending on the market (e.g., Italian, French, German).

What We Offer

1. A leadership position in a growing and high-performing M&A platform.
2. Direct access to top-tier private equity clients.
3. Competitive compensation structure (base bonus potential equity).
4. Entrepreneurial and collaborative culture with strong deal flow.
5. Opportunities for long-term career development and partnership.

Office: Milan