Director – M&A Integration

Company OverviewA private equity–backed and rapidly growing platform in the hospitality sector is building a best-in-class M&A and integration capability to support aggressive acquisition activity across a multi-state footprint. The organization is focused on local, service-oriented operations, investing in systems and leadership to scale efficiently while protecting the seller and guest experience.SummaryThis group is hiring a Director – M&A Integration to join the Corporate Development / Value Creation team. Reporting to the VP of Corporate Development, the Manager will serve as the primary point of contact for acquisition targets through the pre-close period and lead post-close integration execution (typical deal engagement ≈ 6 months). The role creates tailored integration plans, coordinates across HR, Accounting, IT, and Operations, and ensures timely milestone delivery while providing an exceptional seller experience. Regular travel to portfolio locations is required (approximately 15–25%).Key Performance OutcomesEfficient Pre-Close ExecutionDrive deals forward within the established M&A process, targeting a close within ~90 days of LOI by proactively identifying and managing risks, dependencies, and key milestones.Timely Integration LaunchDevelop a draft integration strategy for investment committee review and deliver critical integration milestones within approximately four months post-close.Exceptional Seller ExperienceEnsure a seamless and professional transition for sellers by following a “Leave No Wake” approach, resulting in consistently positive feedback.Strong Internal CoordinationFoster transparent communication, clear accountability, and productive collaboration with operational teams and the Value Creation function.Primary ResponsibilitiesPre-Close Deal Management & Integration PlanningServe as the primary liaison for sellers throughout the pre-close phase—initiating transactions, setting expectations, and managing key timelines and deliverables. Oversee diligence workflows, including coordination of third-party vendors and escalation of issues as necessary. Structure seller engagements thoughtfully to maintain focus and minimize disruption. Build detailed integration plans using insights from due diligence and cross-functional input. Maintain momentum toward closing while keeping stakeholders, especially sellers, informed and aligned. Post-Close Integration Execution & OversightActivate the integration program immediately upon close, converting pre-close planning into a detailed execution roadmap with defined ownership and timelines. Lead centralized project management across HR, Finance, IT, Operations, and other departments to ensure smooth, timely delivery of integration tasks. Maintain proactive communication with sellers post-close, promptly surfacing and resolving risks or operational concerns. Compile final integration documentation summarizing outstanding items, risks, and key learnings to ensure a clean handoff to ongoing operations. Cross-Functional Collaboration & Process OptimizationPartner closely with M&A and Value Creation teams to enhance integration tools, templates, and processes—building a scalable, repeatable integration framework. Establish trusted relationships with regional and functional leaders to ensure alignment and smooth implementation. Capture feedback and lessons learned to drive continuous improvement of integration practices and playbooks. QualificationsBachelor’s degree in Business, Finance, or a related field; MBA or advanced degree is a plus. 5–7 years of experience in integration, PMO, or post-merger integration roles—experience in founder-led or private equity environments preferred. Demonstrated expertise with project management tools and driving process/tool adoption. Strong interpersonal and communication skills with high emotional intelligence. Comfortable navigating fast-paced, distributed environments; experience in hospitality or vacation rentals is advantageous. Excellent organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills; capable of translating strategic goals into operational plans. Willingness to travel 15%–25% as needed.