CEO - MBI Program - Operating Partner
Job in
Milan, Lombardy, Italy
Listed on 2026-08-18
Listing for:
All Interests Aligned
Full Time
position Listed on 2026-08-18
Job specializations:
-
Management
Corporate Strategy, Operations Management, Business Analyst, BD Manager -
Business
Corporate Strategy, Operations Management, Business Analyst, BD Manager
Job Description & How to Apply Below
Management Buy-In (MBI) Program, you will lead the acquisition and management of a high-potential, family-owned SME 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.
WorkingcloselywithAIA,you’llexperienceafully-supportedjourneyacrossallstagesoftheMBIprocess:
Origination:
IdentifyandassesspotentialacquisitiontargetswithAIA’sfinancialandstrategicsupport.
Duringthisphase,youwillbe compensated, ensuring financial stability while you focus on building your acquisition pipeline.
Deal Closing:
PartnerwithAIA’sinvestmentprofessionalswholeadduediligence,valuation,anddealstructuring to secure the acquisition.
Transition:
TakeontheCEOrole,withastructuredtransitionplanthatincludesleadershiphandoverand relationship-building with key stakeholders.
Operation:
Leadthecompany’soperations,supportedbyAIA’steamingovernance,reporting,andcompliancetocreateandexecuteavalue-drivengrowthplan.
Exit:
PrepareandexecuteanexitstrategyinpartnershipwithAIA,maximizingreturnsandensuringasustainable future for the business.
Industries&Investment
CriteriaAIA’sinvestmentfocusisoncash-flowpositive,owner-operatedSMEsacrossindustriessuchas:
Consumer products
Industrial goods
Healthcare
Construction & building
Energy, utilities & environment
Business services
Chemicals & materials
Education & human services
Transportation & logistics
Idealacquisitiontargetsmeetthefollowingcriteria:
Enterprisesalesofbetween €10-€40million
Consistenthistoryofgeneratingfreecashflow(minimum
10% ofsales)
Establishedorstablegrowth,withastrongcompetitivepositioninunderservedmarkets
TheseinvestmentstandardsensurethateachacquisitionalignswithAIA’smissiontosolvetheSMEsuccessioncrisis in Europe.
Selection Process AdmissiontotheAIAMBIProgramisrigorous,ensuringastrongfitbetweenfutureCEOsandAIA’smission.
The multi-stage process includes leadership assessments, in-depth interviews, 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.
Experience:
A minimum of 5-years in a general management role with direct accountability for both sales and profitability, including at least 10-15 years of post-undergraduate professional experience.
Industry Expertise:
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).Entrepreneurial Mindset:
Demonstrate resilience, resourcefulness and the ability to navigate and overcome significant business challenges to achieve strong outcomes.
Emotional Readiness:
Prepared to take on a leadership role, with clarity of purpose, a strong vision for growth, and a commitment to making a lasting impact.
Balanced Ambition:
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.
Local Anchorage:
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.
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