Overview:
Follett School Solutions is the preeminent provider of software solutions to the k12 market.
Serving the education market for over 140 years, we are dedicated to improving education and empowering educators with integrated educational technology.
With a commitment to innovation and excellence, we are seeking a highly skilled and strategic professional to join our leadership team as the Vice President of Mergers and Acquisitions.
Summary:
As the Vice President of Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A), you will play a crucial role in shaping the growth and success of Follett School Solutions.
Reporting directly to the Chief Financial Officer (CFO), you will be responsible for developing the company's M&A strategy under the direction of the FSS Executive Deal Team, driving the identification and evaluation of potential acquisition targets, and managing the execution of transactions from sourcing through close.
Key Responsibilities:
M&A Strategy Devleopment:
Develop, maintain and execute a Mergers and Acquisitions Strategic Roadmap based upon the Company’s strategic growth objectives under the direction of the FSS Executive Deal Team.
Collaborate with executive leadership to identify opportunities for inorganic growth and market expansion.
Identify and analyze addressable markets that align with Company’s strategic direction as well as its portfolio.
Market Analysis and Trend Monitoring:
Stay abreast of industry trends, competitive landscapes, and emerging and adjacent market opportunities.
Continuously assess and analyze the competitive landscape to identify potential threats and opportunities for the company.
Deal Origination and Target Identification:
Proactively identify and evaluate potential acquisition targets, considering strategic fit, financial performance, and cultural alignment.
Build and maintain a robust network within the industry to stay informed about potential opportunities.
Develop and maintain outside relationships with key individuals at prospective future acquisition companies that align with Follett School Solutions’ long-term strategy.
Develop and execute an objective, consistent, disciplined approach to evaluating potential acquisition targets covering Pre-LOI and Due Diligence phases.
Complete and present preliminary analysis of potential targets (pre-LOI) – including financial analysis, portfolio fit, risk analysis, etc.
to FSS Executive Deal Team for consideration.
Financial Analysis and Due Diligence:
Conduct thorough financial analysis, due diligence, and risk assessments for potential acquisitions.
Create an investment thesis and business case for potential transactions.
Work closely with cross-functional teams, including legal, finance, and operations, to assess and mitigate risks associated with M&A transactions.
Negotiation and Deal Execution:
Work with FSS Executive Deal Team to drive negotiations with target companies, ensuring favorable terms and conditions for Follett School Solutions.
Collaborate with legal and finance teams to execute definitive agreements and navigate the regulatory and compliance aspects of transactions.
Work closely with Francisco Partners and Follett School Solutions’ Executive Deal Team to determine optimal transaction parameters (Asset vs.
Stock, entity structure, tax implications, borrowing needs/capital structure, etc.
.
).
Operational Synergies:
Work with FSS Executive Leadership to identify and quantify operational synergy opportunities with potential transactions.
Stakeholder Communications:
Communicate M&A strategies, progress, and outcomes to executive leadership, board members, and other stakeholders, including deal pipeline, sourcing activity, negotiation status, etc.
Maintain open and transparent communication channels throughout the M&A process.
Qualifications:
Proven track record of successfully leading and executing M&A transactions in a senior leadership role.
Strong financial acumen and analytical skills.
Excellent negotiation and communication abilities.
In-depth knowledge of legal and regulatory aspects related to M&A transactions.
Demonstrated ability to think strategically and provide insights to shape corporate strategy.
Leadership experience in managing cross-functional teams
Education and Experience:
Bachelor's degree in Business, Finance, or a related field.
MBA or relevant advanced degree preferred.
5+ years of experience in corporate development, business development, mergers and acquisitions, or equivalent, with a focus on software and/or education markets.
Previous experience in a senior leadership role within a corporate M&A team or investment banking.