Mbi Program - Operating Partner Milano

Mbi Program - Operating Partner
Milano
Lombardia, Milano

As an Operating Partner in AIA's Management Buy-In (MBI) Program, you will lead the acquisition and management of a high-potential, family-owned SME facing a succession challenge.

Unlike a traditional job, this is a unique career path, offering you the opportunity to become a CEO-owner of a business, with the backing of investors who are successful entrepreneurs themselves.

Working closely with AIA, you'll experience a fully-supported journey across all stages of the MBI process:

- ** Origination**: Identify and assess potential acquisition targets with AIA's financial and strategic support.

During this phase, you will be compensated, ensuring financial stability while you focus on building your acquisition pipeline.

- ** Deal Closing**: Partner with AIA's investment professionals who lead due diligence, valuation, and deal structuring to secure the acquisition.

- ** Transition**: Take on the CEO role, with a structured transition plan that includes leadership handover and relationship-building with key stakeholders.

- ** Operation**: Lead the company's operations, supported by AIA's team in governance, reporting, and compliance to create and execute a value-driven growth plan.

- ** Exit**: Prepare and execute an exit strategy in partnership with AIA, maximizing returns and ensuring a sustainable future for the business.

**Industries & Investment Criteria

AIA's investment focus is on cash-flow positive, owner-operated SMEs across industries such as:

- Manufacturing

- Business & commercial services

- Transportation & storage services

- Consumer product & services

- Healthcare equipment & services

- Information technology

- Communications

Ideal acquisition targets meet the following criteria:

- Enterprise sales of between €10 - €40 million

- Consistent history of generating free cash flow (minimum 10% of sales)

- Established or stable growth, with a strong competitive position in underserved markets

These investment standards ensure that each acquisition aligns with AIA's mission to solve the SME succession crisis in Europe.

**Selection Process

Admission to the AIA MBI Program is rigorous, ensuring a strong fit between Operating Partners and AIA's mission.

The multi-stage process includes leadership assessments, in-depth interviews, business case, development of an investment thesis and a final presentation to a panel of AIA leaders and external experts.

The selection process typically spans 15 weeks, requiring 30-40 hours of preparation.

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Experience**: 15+ years of post-education experience, with a minimum of 5 years in a P&L or general management role.

- ** Industry Expertise**: Proven success and deep expertise in a relevant industry that aligns with AIA's investment strategy.

- ** Entrepreneurial Mindset**: Demonstrated resilience, grit, and a track record of overcoming challenges to achieve successful business outcomes.

- ** Emotional Readiness**: Prepared for the challenges of an entrepreneurial role, with a clear vision and passion for business growth.

- ** Balanced Ambition**: A combination of humility and a strong drive for success, with a clear understanding of how AIA can support your goals.