Strategy & Business Development - Senior Manager

Confidential Opportunity – Senior Manager, Strategy & Business Development (Chicago Area)A high impact opportunity to step into a visible, standalone strategy & M&A role within a global industrial business undergoing significant growth and transformation.This is not a typical corporate development position. It’s a chance to build and own the acquisition engine, working directly with senior leadership to shape where the business goes next.The OpportunityYou will operate at the centre of the company’s growth agenda, combining strategy, market intelligence and hands-on M&A execution.Key areas of focus include:Building and developing a pipeline of acquisition targetsLeading market and space assessments to identify new growth areasDriving commercial due diligence and strategic evaluationDeveloping investment cases, valuation models, and board-level materialsPartnering closely with senior leadership to define future growth strategyEngaging directly with targets and supporting end-to-end deal executionThis is a high-autonomy role, with real ownership from day one.What Makes This DifferentTrue ownership – not a support role or banker-led processDirect exposure to President / C-suiteOpportunity to shape new markets, not just analyse existing onesA business actively investing in growth through M&AA role designed to be built and defined by youIdeal ProfileWe are looking for individuals who combine strategic thinking with execution capability:Background in strategy consulting (Engagement Manager / Senior Manager level or equivalent)Experience in commercial due diligence, growth strategy, or market assessmentExposure to M&A / corporate development (buy-side preferred)Strong ability to “crack the answer” and build a clear narrative from complexityComfortable operating with ambiguity, pace, and senior stakeholdersSelf-starter with a high level of ownership and intellectual curiosityIndustry experience in industrials, energy, or engineered products is helpful but not essential.Location & PackageChicago area (primary talent market)On-site role with travel as requiredCompetitive base salary ($160k–$200k+) + 20% bonusWhy Consider This RoleThis will appeal to someone looking to move from consulting into industry and:Take real ownership of strategy and M&AWork in a fast-moving, execution-focused environmentBuild something from the ground upGain visibility and long-term career progressionNext StepsThis is a confidential search. For more information, please apply or reach out directly for an initial discussion.