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# Director of Deal Origination


Role Overview for Director of Deal Origination
JRG Partners is actively seeking a highly accomplished and results-driven Director of Deal Origination on behalf of a prominent, rapidly growing private equity firm specializing in middle-market investments. This pivotal role is designed for a strategic leader with an exceptional track record in identifying, cultivating, and securing proprietary investment opportunities across diverse industries. The Director of Deal Origination will be instrumental in driving the firm’s growth trajectory by proactively building and nurturing a robust pipeline of potential target companies.
As a key member of the investment team, you will be at the forefront of the firm’s expansion efforts, responsible for initiating and developing relationships with business owners, management teams, investment bankers, and other intermediaries. Your expertise will be critical in the initial screening and evaluation of potential targets, assessing their strategic fit, market potential, and financial viability before presenting them to the investment committee.
This is an unparalleled opportunity for an individual who thrives in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment and is passionate about uncovering compelling investment opportunities that align with the firm’s strategic objectives. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of private equity investment strategies, a strong network within the middle-market M&A ecosystem, and the ability to articulate complex financial concepts with clarity and conviction.
This role demands a proactive approach, a keen eye for value creation, and the ability to navigate complex deal landscapes. You will represent the firm with the highest level of professionalism and integrity, acting as an ambassador to the broader investment community. Your success will directly contribute to the firm’s portfolio growth and overall return on investment, making this a highly visible and impactful position within the organization.
Key Responsibilities of Director of Deal Origination
Strategic Sourcing & Pipeline Generation
Proactively identify, research, and source new investment opportunities that align with the firm’s investment criteria and sector focus. This includes proprietary deal sourcing through direct outreach to companies, as well as leveraging relationships with investment banks, M&A advisors, private equity funds, legal firms, accounting firms, and other intermediaries. Develop and execute comprehensive origination strategies tailored to specific industries and market segments.
Relationship Management & Networking
Build, cultivate, and maintain a broad and deep network of relationships within the middle-market ecosystem. Regularly attend industry conferences, trade shows, and networking events to expand contacts and stay abreast of market trends. Act as a primary point of contact for potential sellers and intermediaries, fostering trust and rapport.
Opportunity Screening & Qualification
Conduct initial screening and qualification of potential investment targets. This involves performing preliminary financial analysis, market research, competitive landscape assessments, and strategic fit evaluations. Quickly discern high-potential opportunities from those that do not meet the firm’s criteria, optimizing the use of internal resources.
Investment Thesis Development
Work collaboratively with the investment team to develop compelling investment theses and preliminary deal summaries for qualified opportunities. Articulate the rationale for investment, key value drivers, potential risks, and strategic growth initiatives.
Pitch & Presentation Development
Prepare high-quality, persuasive pitch materials and presentations for potential targets and internal investment committee reviews. Clearly communicate the firm’s value proposition, investment approach, and partnership benefits.
CRM & Deal Flow Management
Manage and maintain the firm’s CRM system (e.g., Salesforce, Affinity) to track all deal origination activities, pipeline status, and relationship interactions. Ensure accurate and timely reporting on deal flow metrics and origination efforts.
Market Intelligence & Industry Analysis
Stay informed of current market conditions, industry trends, and competitive dynamics relevant to the firm’s target sectors. Provide insights and analysis to the investment team to inform origination strategies and identify emerging opportunities or risks.
Collaboration with Investment Team
Partner closely with the deal execution team, including Managing Directors and Partners, throughout the entire investment process, from initial contact and due diligence to term sheet negotiation and closing. Facilitate seamless handoffs and provide ongoing support as needed.
Mentorship & Team Development
Potentilally mentor and guide junior team members, fostering a culture of continuous learning and development within the origination function.
Negotiation & Confidentiality
Assist in the initial stages of negotiation, including term sheet discussions and the execution of non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) and confidentiality agreements.
Representing the Firm
Act as a professional and ethical representative of the firm in all external interactions, upholding its reputation and values.
Requirements for the Director of Deal Origination
Experience
A minimum of 8-12+ years of progressive experience in deal origination, business development, M&A advisory, private equity, investment banking, or corporate development roles. Demonstrated success in sourcing and closing transactions, particularly within the middle-market segment (enterprise values typically between $50 million and $500 million).
Educational Background
Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Economics, Business Administration, or a related quantitative field is required. An MBA from a top-tier institution or a CFA designation is highly preferred and will be viewed favorably.
Financial Acumen
Deep understanding of financial modeling, valuation methodologies (DCF, precedent transactions, comparable company analysis), and private equity investment structures. Ability to quickly analyze financial statements and key performance indicators.
Networking Prowess
Extensive existing network within the private equity, investment banking, and corporate advisory communities. Proven ability to build and leverage relationships effectively.
Communication Skills
Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex ideas clearly, concisely, and persuasively to diverse audiences, including C-suite executives, business owners, and internal stakeholders. Strong presentation and negotiation abilities are essential.
Analytical & Strategic Thinking
Superior analytical skills with the capacity to conduct thorough market research, identify trends, and develop strategic insights. Ability to think critically and make data-driven decisions.
Self-Motivation & Drive
Highly self-motivated, proactive, and results-oriented with a strong entrepreneurial spirit. Ability to work independently with minimal supervision while also excelling in a collaborative team environment.
Integrity & Professionalism
Unwavering commitment to ethical conduct, integrity, and discretion in handling sensitive information.
Technical Proficiency
Advanced proficiency with CRM software (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot), Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel (for financial analysis) and PowerPoint (for presentations).
Travel
Willingness and ability to travel extensively (up to 50% or more) for meetings, conferences, and site visits, as deal origination often requires significant in-person engagement.
Industry Knowledge
Familiarity with various industry sectors relevant to middle-market private equity investments, with a strong ability to quickly learn and adapt to new sectors. Understanding of the full lifecycle of mergers and acquisitions (M&A) is crucial.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Competitive Compensation Package
A highly attractive base salary commensurate with experience, a robust performance-based bonus structure, and the potential for carried interest or equity participation, directly aligning your success with the firm’s.
Comprehensive Health & Wellness
Top-tier medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for employees and their families, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality healthcare.
Retirement Savings
A generous 401(k) retirement plan with a substantial company match, designed to support your long-term financial security.
Generous Paid Time Off
A competitive vacation policy, sick leave, and paid holidays, encouraging work-life balance and personal rejuvenation.
Professional Development
Significant opportunities for continuous learning, professional growth, and career advancement within a dynamic and expanding private equity firm. Access to industry conferences, workshops, and educational resources.
Collaborative & Dynamic Environment
Work within a highly collaborative, intellectually stimulating, and results-driven culture where innovation and strategic thinking are highly valued.
Impactful Work
The chance to play a critical role in the firm’s growth, directly influencing investment decisions and contributing to the success of portfolio companies.
Modern Work Environment
Access to cutting-edge technology and resources in a state-of-the-art office setting, supporting efficiency and productivity.
Team & Culture
Join a team of experienced and passionate professionals dedicated to excellence, fostering a supportive and engaging work atmosphere.
How to Apply
Are you a seasoned deal originator ready to leverage your expertise to drive significant value for a leading private equity firm? If you possess the strategic vision, network, and execution capabilities to excel in this challenging yet rewarding role, we encourage you to apply.
To be considered for the Director of Deal Origination position, please submit your comprehensive resume along with a compelling cover letter outlining your relevant experience, key achievements in deal sourcing, and why you are the ideal candidate for this opportunity. Please highlight specific examples of transactions you have originated and your role in their successful progression.
JRG Partners is a premier executive search firm specializing in connecting top-tier talent with leading opportunities in private equity and finance. Learn more about our Private Equity Executive Search practice and how we can further assist your career aspirations.
We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. All applications will be handled with the utmost confidentiality.