Overview: We are seeking a highly experienced and dynamic Managing Director, Investment Banking to join a esteemed banking firm. The successful candidate will play a critical role in leading and expanding our M&A advisory business, focusing on the local market in Bahrain and the wider GCC region. This individual will work closely with senior leadership to drive strategic M&A transactions, providing expert advisory services to clients, and managing key relationships.
The ideal candidate will have a strong background in investment banking, particularly in M&A advisory, with a proven track record in executing high-profile deals in the Middle East. As an MD you will be responsible for overseeing a team of professionals while collaborating closely with both internal and external stakeholders to ensure the successful delivery of M&A transactions.
Key Responsibilities:
M&A Advisory Leadership:
- Lead the execution of M&A transactions for clients across various sectors, providing strategic, financial, and operational advisory services.
- Advise corporate clients, private equity firms, and institutional investors on mergers, acquisitions, divestitures, and joint ventures.
- Develop and implement innovative strategies to secure mandates and manage complex M&A processes from deal origination through execution to closure.
Team Management & Collaboration:
- Co-lead and mentor a team of investment banking professionals, driving excellence in deal execution and client service.
- Foster a collaborative environment to enhance deal sourcing, pitch preparation, financial modeling, and presentation development.
- Manage and oversee the quality of client deliverables and team outputs.
Market Intelligence & Business Development:
- Leverage deep knowledge of the local market to identify potential M&A opportunities and cultivate relationships with high-level decision-makers.
- Actively participate in the firm’s business development efforts by attending industry events, meeting with clients, and expanding the firm's network within Bahrain and the broader GCC region.
- Build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including clients, legal advisors, regulators, and industry experts.
Strategic Advisory & Client Management:
- Provide expert advice on market trends, strategic growth opportunities, and potential M&A risks.
- Oversee the development of pitch books, financial models, and other client presentations, ensuring alignment with client objectives.
- Maintain high-level client relationships and act as the primary point of contact throughout the transaction lifecycle.
- Negotiate and structure deal terms in collaboration with senior executives and external parties.
Transaction Execution & Risk Management:
- Oversee due diligence processes, coordinate with internal and external teams, and ensure transaction execution adheres to timelines and budgets.
- Act as a trusted advisor during negotiations and help resolve any critical issues or conflicts.
- Monitor and mitigate risk throughout the transaction process, ensuring compliance with all regulatory requirements and firm policies.
Required Skills and Qualifications:
Experience:
- A minimum of 11 years of experience in investment banking, with a strong focus on M&A transactions, preferably in the GCC region.
- Proven track record of leading and executing high-value M&A transactions, particularly in the local and regional market.
- Extensive experience working with corporate clients, private equity firms, and institutional investors on complex strategic transactions.
Educational Background:
- A degree in Finance, Economics, Business Administration, or a related field (MBA or equivalent advanced degree is preferred).
Skills & Competencies:
- Strong leadership abilities with a proven track record of managing teams and developing junior talent.
- Advanced financial modeling and valuation skills (DCF, precedent transactions, comps, LBO modeling).
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build relationships with senior executives and clients.
- Strong negotiation and problem-solving skills.
- In-depth understanding of M&A processes, regulatory frameworks, and market dynamics in the Middle East.
- Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment.
Languages:
- Fluent in English; proficiency in Arabic is highly desirable but not essential.