Corporate Development Associate

Company Description 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. Job Description • 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. Qualifications • 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. Additional Information 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.