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About our client

Our client is a specialized private equity investor, known for their original approach to unlocking value in the European, small-cap buyout market. Founded by seasoned private equity professionals with deep roots in the DACH and UK markets, the firm was established to offer institutional investors access to off-market, lower mid-market opportunities that are typically overlooked by traditional mid-large cap funds. Their strategy focuses on investing alongside Independent Sponsors / first-time funds, supporting the acquisition of high-quality, often under-the-radar businesses, rather than participating in standard competitive auctions. These transactions are predominantly sourced on a proprietary basis, requiring a proactive approach to networking within the sponsor ecosystem and the ability to identify high potential situations.

Following the successful first close of their latest fund and a robust track record of capital deployment, they are keen to build a dedicated Origination function and we are mandated to hire a Head of Origination, to join their Zurich-based team, with responsibility for leading the sourcing and development of relationships with Emerging Manager and Independent Sponsor platforms across Europe.

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What the job involves

This is a newly created, highly visible expansion role designed to support growing origination needs ahead of Fund III & IV. You will have the unique opportunity to build the origination function from the ground up.

• Sponsor Origination: Actively generate relationships with Emerging Managers and independent sponsors, acting as the face of the firm to secure deal flow
• Network Expansion: Independently build and nurture a robust network with intermediaries, industry contacts, and potential partners across Europe
• Evaluation & Diligence: Assess sponsor track records, sector specialisms, and process toolkits to identify high-potential partnership opportunities
• Pipeline Development: Engage in detailed discussions regarding potential transactions in sponsors' pipelines, evaluating deal dynamics and strategic alignment
• Brand Ambassadorship: Attend industry events and lead meetings, effectively selling the firm's unique partnership model and value proposition to prospective sponsors
• Market Coverage: Drive the firm's European origination strategy, traveling frequently (weekly/bi-weekly) to key markets to nurture relationships

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Who we are looking for

• Experience: Relevant experience, ideally drawn from a top-tier primary placement agent, a fund of funds, a co-investment platform, or an in-house small-cap PE origination team
• Exceptional Networker: Outgoing, highly personable, and engaging. You must be a natural relationship-builder, someone prospective partners genuinely look forward to speaking with
• Industry Fluency: Ability to seamlessly "speak the same language" as investment professionals. While pure investment analysis is not the primary focus, strong commercial awareness, process management skills, and an understanding of competitive deal dynamics are critical
• Regional Expertise: A strong network and experience within the Pan-European market. Specific exposure to the DACH region is highly advantageous
• Drive & Culture Fit: Commercially minded with a strong ownership mentality. You thrive in an environment focused on making money rather than administration