CEO - MBI Program (Operating Partner) - Italy

ppItaly has one of Europe's highest concentrations of family-owned SMEs approaching a generational handover with no successor in place, and one of the strongest track records of operators stepping in to lead that transition. /p pThis is an Italy-based CEO role, we're looking for candidates with deep, established professional roots in Italy's business community. /p pAs a Chief Executive Officer (Operating Partner) in All Interests /p pAligned's (AIA) Management Buy-In (MBI) Program, you will lead the acquisition and management of a high-potential, family-owned SME in Italy facing a succession challenge. Unlike a traditional job, this is a unique career path, offering you the opportunity to become a CEO-owner of a business, with the backing of investors who are successful entrepreneurs themselves. /p pWorking closely with AIA, you'll experience a fully-supported journey across all stages of the MBI process: /p h3Origination /h3 pIdentify and assess potential acquisition targets with AIA's financial and strategic support. During this phase, you will be compensated, ensuring financial stability while you focus on building your acquisition pipeline. /p h3Deal Closing /h3 pPartner with AIA's investment professionals who lead due diligence, valuation, and deal structuring to secure the acquisition. /p h3Transition /h3 pTake on the CEO role, with a structured transition plan that includes leadership handover and relationship-building with key stakeholders. /p h3Operation /h3 pLead the company's operations, supported by AIA's team in governance, reporting, and compliance to create and execute a value-driven growth plan. /p h3Exit /h3 pPrepare and execute an exit strategy in partnership with AIA, maximizing returns and ensuring a sustainable future for the business. /p pAIA's investment focus is on cash-flow positive, owner-operated SMEs across industries such as: /p ul liConsumer Products (FB only) /li liFacility operations, maintenance, service repair /li liTransportation logistics /li liHealth services, wellness nutrition /li /ul h3Ideal acquisition targets meet the following criteria /h3 ul liEnterprise sales of between €10–40 million /li liConsistent history of generating free cash flow (minimum 10% of sales) /li liEstablished or stable growth, with a strong competitive position in underserved markets /li /ul pThese investment standards ensure that each acquisition aligns with AIA's mission to solve the SME succession crisis in Europe. /p h3Selection Process /h3 pAdmission to the AIA MBI Program is rigorous, ensuring a strong fit between future CEOs and AIA's mission. The multi-stage process includes leadership assessments, in-depth interviews, a business case, development of an investment thesis, and a final presentation to a panel of AIA leaders and external experts. The selection process typically spans 15–17 weeks, requiring 35–40 hours of preparation. /p h3Job Requirements /h3 ul libExperience: /b A minimum of 5 years in a general management role with full PL accountability, not just influence over it: if the business goes south, the consequences are yours to carry, not a superior's. Combined with at least 10–15 years of post-undergraduate professional experience. /li libOperating background required: /b This program is built for hands-on operators. It isn't a fit for candidates whose background is primarily in financial services, banking, private equity, or consulting without direct, operating PL accountability. /li libIndustry Expertise: /b A proven track record of success and deep domain knowledge in a sector that aligns with AIA's investment thesis and strategic priorities, across various business types (corporates and SMEs). /li libLocal Anchorage: /b Strong regional insight with fluency in local language and business culture, supported by a deep understanding of the economy and a well-established network in the chosen geography. /li libEntrepreneurial Mindset: /b Demonstrate resilience, resourcefulness, and the ability to navigate and overcome significant business challenges to achieve strong outcomes. /li libEmotional Readiness: /b Prepared to take on a leadership role, with clarity of purpose, a strong vision for growth, and a commitment to making a lasting impact. /li libBalanced Ambition: /b A combination of humility and strong personal drive, anchored by a clear understanding of how partnering with AIA can accelerate both individual and business success through purposeful collaboration. /li /ul pUnsure if this program is right for you? /p pJoin our QA Webinars to get your questions answered and learn more about what to expect. /p /p #J-18808-Ljbffr