We are seeking a highly motivated and metrics-driven Associate, Business Development to join our growing team. This individual will play a key role in sourcing and qualifying acquisition opportunities within the vertical market software (VMS) space, building strong relationships across the ecosystem, and supporting our M&A efforts from origination through to transaction handoff.This is a high-impact role ideal for someone with a background in origination, software sales, or private equity.Key ResponsibilitiesOrigination & Market CoverageProactively source and qualify new acquisition opportunities by engaging with software company founders and executives across North America.Develop and maintain comprehensive market maps and target lists across strategic verticals.Drive outbound business development through phone, email, and other channels; manage all interactions in Salesforce.Relationship BuildingBuild and nurture long-term relationships with founders, operators, brokers, bankers, and advisors.Serve as a trusted and professional representative of our firm in the market.Strategic CommunicationClearly communicate our investment philosophy, acquisition approach, and long-term vision to prospective targets.Synthesize market feedback to inform internal strategy and refine vertical theses.Pipeline Management & ReportingOwn CRM hygiene and ensure all outreach, engagements, and deal statuses are accurately maintained in Salesforce.Track and report on key BD metrics including outreach velocity, engagement rates, and funnel conversions.Use automation tools and workflow software to ensure a scalable and efficient process.Deal Team CollaborationSupport the M&A team by assisting in initial target qualification, preparing company summaries, and coordinating a smooth handoff of high-priority opportunities toward LOI and diligence.Qualifications3+ years of professional experience in business development, M&A origination, software sales, or private equity.Proven success in outbound origination with a strong metrics-driven mindset.Deep familiarity with Salesforce; you live in it and maintain rigorous data hygiene.Experience across 2+ organizations preferred to bring a comparative view of best practices.Background in vertical market software is a plus.Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to build trust-based relationships.
