Corporate Development Associate

We are a private equity firm focused on acquiring and growing mid-market software businesses. We move fast, operate with conviction, and look for companies with durable competitive positions in the $50–$100MM transaction range. We are not a growth equity fund chasing the next IPO — we buy businesses. We operate in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment where individuals have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on our growth and direction.

We are seeking a highly motivated and strategic Corporate Development Associate to help drive Employer.com's growth through mergers and acquisitions, strategic investments, and new business opportunities. The ideal candidate has a strong background in Startups and Saas, with experience identifying, evaluating, and executing acquisitions in the technology sector.

This is a hands-on role for someone who thrives in a fast-moving environment, can independently evaluate opportunities, and is comfortable working directly with executive leadership. This is not a passive role. You will originate, not just process. The right person has done this before, has closed deals, and is ready to step into a seat with real accountability and real upside.

Identify and evaluate potential acquisition targets, with a strong focus on SaaS, AI-driven businesses, and emerging technology companies. Build and maintain a pipeline of acquisition opportunities through proactive sourcing, networking, and market research. Lead financial analysis, business valuation, due diligence, and deal structuring.

Assess acquisition targets based on financial performance, technology, product-market fit, growth potential, and strategic alignment. Develop relationships with founders, investors, investment bankers, and other key stakeholders. Partner directly with executive leadership to develop and execute Employer.com's M&A strategy.

Lead negotiations and coordinate transaction processes from initial outreach through closing. Evaluate opportunities to leverage AI and automation within existing and prospective portfolio companies. Collaborate with internal teams to support post-acquisition integration and value creation. Monitor SaaS, AI, and startup market trends to identify emerging investment opportunities.

4–6 years of experience in investment banking (software/technology M&A strongly preferred), corporate development at a fund or PE-backed company, or a senior business development role with direct M&A exposure Must have experience working with or evaluating SaaS businesses, including an understanding of recurring revenue models, SaaS metrics, and valuation.

Must have startup experience, with a demonstrated ability to operate in fast-paced, entrepreneurial environments. Must have strong knowledge of AI technologies and be comfortable using AI to optimize workflow. Experience with financial modeling, business valuation, due diligence, and transaction analysis. Strong analytical, negotiation, and communication skills.

Ability to independently manage multiple projects and priorities. Comfortable working directly with founders, executives, and senior leadership. Experience evaluating early-stage and growth-stage technology businesses. Familiarity with post-acquisition integration and operational value creation. Based in the San Francisco Bay Area.

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines. For transparency, this role pays $130-160k Base + annual bonuses tied to deals closed. Equity up for discussion.