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Introduction

At IBM, our Corporate Development team integrates strategy with effective transaction execution. As an M&A Strategy Consultant, you will help determine priority areas for potential inorganic activity, form strategic rationales, and contribute to the execution of key transactions, ensuring that our M&A activities drive IBM’s long-term objectives and reinforce our competitive edge.

Your role and responsibilities

Job Description:

This role is central to IBM’s Corporate Development efforts, with a primary focus on M&A strategy, market analysis, and transaction execution. As an M&A Strategy Consultant, you will be responsible for managing the M&A pipeline, identifying and evaluating acquisition opportunities, and supporting deal execution to advance IBM’s strategic priorities.

* M&A Strategy & Competitive Insights

* Identifying and building strategic and financial cases for acquisitions to enhance IBM’s market position

* Generating insights into key technology areas to identify opportunities to accelerate IBM’s long-term strategic roadmap via acquisitions

* Assessing IBM’s strengths and gaps to determine opportunities for inorganic growth

* Conducting build-buy-partner-invest analyses for high-priority market segments

* Building and managing IBM’s M&A pipeline to ensure a steady flow of strategically aligned opportunities

* Deal Execution & Financial Analysis

* Conducting financial analysis, financial modeling, and valuation of acquisition targets

* Preparing in-depth analyses and company/market research for potential M&A targets

* Leading due diligence and supporting contract review, close, and post-close processes

* Managing critical deal elements, including close/post-close payments

* M&A Pipeline & Project Management

* Driving cross-functional collaboration across IBM business units and senior stakeholders

* Structuring and executing project plans for complex M&A initiatives

Successful team members in this role have demonstrated:

* Strong Financial Acumen

* Proficiency in financial modeling, valuation techniques, and corporate finance principles

* Expertise in MS Office tools (Excel, Word, PowerPoint) and data providers (Factset, Pitchbook, etc.)

* Attention to detail in financial analysis and due diligence

* Industry & Market Knowledge

* Deep understanding of IBM’s strategic priorities and the competitive technology landscape

* Ability to monitor industry trends and conduct competitive analysis in key segments such as Data & AI, Automation, Security, Services, and Infrastructure

* Analytical skills to assess IBM’s positioning and make data-driven recommendations on M&A opportunities

* Project Management & Relationship Management

* Skilled at structuring and executing cross-functional project plans with clear stakeholder alignment

* Experience working with internal IBM teams and external investment professionals

* Ability to manage multiple workstreams in a fast-paced, high-stakes environment

* Executive Communication & Professionalism

* Ability to synthesize complex analyses into clear, concise recommendations for senior leaders

* Skilled at delivering compelling, well-structured presentations and written materials

* High level of professionalism, attention to detail, and problem-solving mindset

Required education

Bachelor's Degree

Preferred education

Master's Degree

Required technical and professional expertise

* Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Management, Business Administration, Accounting, or a related technical field.

* 3+ years of experience in consulting or investment banking, or other strategy and finance roles with transaction experience

* Strong communication skills

* Expertise in financial modeling with strong attention to detail

* Proven ability to deliver effective executive presentations

* Expert-level proficiency in MS Office tools (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, etc.)

* Demonstrated perseverance in achieving long-term objectives

Preferred technical and professional experience

* MBA from a top institution

* CFA certification

* Buy-side experience in investment or M&A