CEO - Entrepreneur

WAD Capital:
Pioneering the Future of Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition in Europe
At WAD Capital, we are redefining how Europe's retiring SME owners pass on their businesses. Leveraging our in-house resources and expertise, we empower entrepreneurial leaders to acquire and elevate established small to medium-sized companies. With Europe facing a growing succession crisis-where many capable but ageing owners lack a structured plan for exiting-we see a significant opportunity for new leadership to step in and drive sustainable growth.
Our Mission
We are seeking enterprising CEOs or entrepreneurs-first-timers or seasoned professionals-who share our dedication to developing successful SMEs. This is a rare opportunity to partner with WAD Capital to identify, invest in, acquire, and enhance companies with EBITDA ranging from €1-5 million. As the buy-in CEO, you will lead the transformation of these enterprises and set them on a path of long-term success.
Our Investment Philosophy
Investment Range:
We aim to invest between €10-20 million into each platform, encompassing debt, equity, and add-on acquisitions.
Data-Driven Search:
Our Generative deal flow engine and advanced analytics guide the search for acquisition targets, ensuring well-informed decisions.
Generative Deal Flow:
The WAD Capital Programme offers a wealth of opportunities through our in-house pipeline, positioning you to capitalise on strategic acquisitions in promising sectors.
Innovation Integration:
We embed modern operational and strategic methods into established SMEs to foster growth and efficiency.
Network Advantage:
We leverage our extensive network to unlock value and tap into new markets.
Diverse Services:
Our goal is to increases revenue and maximises hidden potential within SMEs.
Targeted Returns:
We endeavour to achieve an IRR of at least 35%.
Why Choose WAD Capital?
Entrepreneurial Autonomy:
Shape the future of your newly acquired company as its entrepreneurial CEO.
Succession Crisis Opportunity:
Seize the chance to step in where retiring founders are looking for capable successors.
End-to-End Support:
Rely on our dedicated M&A team and broad in-house expertise throughout the acquisition and growth phases.
Diversified Portfolio:
Minimise single-company risks by accessing our broad platform of investment opportunities.
Community of Leaders:
Join a high-calibre network of like-minded leaders working collectively to deliver strong returns.
Next Chapter of Your Career:
Our WAD Capital Programme provides tools and guidance to help you excel as a CEO, steering you towards your next professional milestone.
Who We're Looking For
We invite ambitious, innovative leaders keen not only about transforming successful SMEs but building growth stories on top of the legacy of the exiting founder. If you possess a clear 'right to win'-a unique competitive edge or sector-specific expertise-then we want to speak with you.
Application Deadline:
1 February 2025
Key Responsibilities:

Search & Acquisition Lead a discreet yet rigorous search for high-value targets, especially in complex or compliance-driven service sectors. Work closely with WAD's M&A team to manage due diligence, financing, and acquisitions.
CEO Leadership:
Transition into the CEO role, setting strategic direction and overseeing daily operations. Develop a comprehensive plan to integrate multiple business units, ensuring efficiency and synergy.
Strategic Growth & Transformation
Identify new markets and service offerings to drive top-line growth.
Execute brand positioning, marketing, and sales strategies to boost market presence.
Develop and implement operational improvements that enhance productivity and profitability.
Oversee expansions, roll-up initiatives, or add-on acquisitions across interconnected professional service segments.
Requirements
10+ years of entrepreneurship, founder roles, or CEO equivalent experience.
Demonstrated excellence in organisational leadership and team management.
Master's degree (MBA/EMBA) or equivalent-preferably in business, science, or engineering.
Proven track record in risk management , delivering successful outcomes in complex acquisitions.
Well-practised in strategic planning and execution , with a history of achieving ambitious goals.
Strong stakeholder management and influential communication skills.
Previous P&L responsibility and the ability to drive profitable growth.
Self-driven, with unrelenting work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit.
Comfortable leading in industries that require compliance-conscious or regulated approaches-particularly advantageous if you have experience unifying multiple service-oriented entities.
Evidence of exceptional achievements in entrepreneurial or senior management roles.
Nice-to-Haves
Demonstrated ability in international business development .
Business transformation experience, especially in sectors requiring a high degree of compliance or professional oversight.
M&A expertise, with a particular focus on roll-up strategies or multi-site integrations.
Consulting background in a reputable firm.
Track record in managing SMEs or professional services organisations.
A growth mindset and passion for continuous learning.
Selection Process
1. Initial Screening:
CV review and preliminary evaluation.
2. In-Depth Dialogue & Investment Case Thesis:
In-depth discussions to craft a refined investment case.
3. Final Review:
Presentation of the Investment Thesis to our investment committee.
Ready to Shape the Future with WAD Capital?
Submit your application by 1 February 2025 . Visit wadcap.com to learn more about our programme, the application process, and how we're harnessing Europe's SME succession opportunity to build the next generation of thriving businesses.
Join us at WAD Capital and make your mark-driving innovation, growth, and excellence as the leader of tomorrow's most promising SMEs.
•