VP of M&A Business Development

Job Description

Position Overview

Scout is seeking a Vice President of M&A Business Development (Independent Contractor) to lead market expansion and partnership efforts through strategic relationship development and high-value outreach.

This is a performance-based, uncapped opportunity for a seasoned professional adept at identifying, cultivating, and managing strategic business opportunities. The role requires a consultative mindset, the ability to build long-term value, and the discipline to manage a complex portfolio of relationships. You will serve as the face of Scout, driving growth by connecting investment mandates with unique market opportunities.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Business Development & Partnership

• Develop and execute strategic business development plans to identify new market opportunities and partnerships.
• Engage with C-suite executives, owners, and key decision-makers to build long-term, mutually beneficial relationships.
• Proactively identify high-value investment opportunities that align with client strategic objectives.
• Manage a dynamic pipeline of potential partners, prioritizing high-impact engagements and strategic long-term prospects.

Consultative Relationship Management

• Serve as a trusted advisor to founders, CEOs, and executives, understanding their long-term growth and transition objectives.
• Lead consultative, high-level discussions that position our clients as the preferred partner for complex business needs.
• Maintain ongoing, proactive communication with stakeholders to nurture relationships and capitalize on future opportunities.

Market Positioning & Collaboration

• Act as a strategic ambassador for Scout, clearly articulating our value proposition to external partners.
• Collaborate with Scout leadership to refine outreach strategies and adapt market messaging in real-time.
• Provide actionable market intelligence and competitive insights that inform and refine client strategy.

Opportunity Execution & Client Advocacy

• Facilitate the transition of qualified relationships to clients with detailed, value-add context.
• Ensure that client discussions are well-supported with relevant background and strategic insights, maximizing the likelihood of successful outcomes.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in business development, strategic partnerships, M&A, or senior client-facing roles.
• Proven track record of managing complex, relationship-driven sales cycles with senior decision-makers.
• Exceptional communication and executive-presence skills; ability to influence and persuade at the C-suite level.
• Strategic thinker with the ability to manage personal accountability within an independent, performance-driven environment.
• Strong organizational skills to maintain long-term, multi-touch engagement strategies.
• A Bachelor's degree in Finance, Business Administration, or a related field; advanced degree or certifications (e.g., MBA) are a strong plus.

Ideal Candidate Profile

• Views business development as a long-term value-creation process rather than just transaction volume.
• Takes ownership of the full relationship lifecycle and is motivated by high-impact outcomes.
• Brings high-level professionalism, credibility, and sound judgment to all interactions.
• Operates effectively with minimal oversight, with a self-directed, entrepreneurial bias.
• Deeply interested in the strategic landscape of the M&A and private equity ecosystem.

Compensation

• 100% performance-based (1099 independent contractor).
• Uncapped earnings tied to successfully cultivated opportunities and closed transactions.
• Significant upside potential for high-performing individuals who can consistently drive strategic growth.

Why This Role

• Direct influence on business growth and strategy.
• No cap on earning potential.
• Deep immersion in the private equity and M&A ecosystem.
• Opportunity to build a high-value, professional network of decision-makers.