About the role

We are seeking a dynamic and ambitious Associate in M&A to join our team in Kontich, with easy access to both Antwerp and Brussels. You will play a key role in guiding the growth of our portfolio companies by performing financial analysis, valuations and due diligence for M&A transactions, and collaborating with management to achieve sustainable success.

This unique role at Companions offers the best of both worlds: immersion in an investment environment and tangible impact within various enterprises across different sectors. This exposure promises a dynamic learning journey with a steep career path, where financial acumen, ownership and analytical skills become your winning advantage.

Your responsibilities will include

• Evaluating investment opportunities by reviewing available information and presenting your findings to the team.
• Performing valuations on target companies to determine potential financial returns and structuring the deal (mix of cash/equity/debt).
• Coordinating due diligence processes, critically examining financial statements and other available information to identify risks and opportunities.
• Managing project timelines and workflows to ensure all deal-related activities are completed on schedule.
• Supporting purchase price negotiations, including price, payment structure, and post-acquisition plans, based on due diligence findings.
• Coordinating with financial institutions to negotiate financing terms.
• Preparing and valuing potential exits for portfolio companies.
• Supporting external communication with stakeholders at the Companions Group level, focusing on portfolio valuation.

You are the perfect fit if you…

• Hold a master's degree in economics, management, business, or commercial engineering, with an excellent academic track record;
• Possess 2-4 years of experience in a similar M&A role (experience in transaction services is a plus but not essential);
  
• Are highly analytical, have critical thinking skills and are proficient in Excel;
• Seek a steep career path, with the opportunity to grow into a C-executive role;
• Want to achieve maximum impact, are ambitious and ready to roll up your sleeves;
• Work in a structured approach, and have the flexibility to quickly adapt;
• Have a passion for winning, just like the rest of our team;
• Enjoy working in an environment that is "informal, but professional";
• Are fluent in both spoken and written Dutch and English, French is a plus.

You simply can’t resist our offer because it includes…

• A high level of autonomy, trust, and responsibility;
• The potential to collaborate closely with high-performing management teams, and inspiring colleagues, who consistently go the extra mile;
• A rapidly changing and growing environment that encourages leadership, entrepreneurship and ownership; 
• Unforgettable team experiences; 
• An optimized salary package.

About Companions

Companions is an investment holding that co-invests in Small and Medium-sized companies alongside ambitious leaders and motivated teams. As active shareholders, we empower our portfolio companies to grow sustainably by leveraging our expertise in strategy, finance, and operations.

At Companions, we celebrate diversity and foster an inclusive work environment where unique perspectives and backgrounds are valued. We believe that diversity enhances our ability to support our portfolio companies and partners effectively.