Our philosophy is to find and recruit the most talented, experienced operators—executives who are ready to embark on a management buy-in journey, with our support.
We empower skilled business operators to acquire profitable SMEs across Europe facing succession challenges.
Backed by €200 million in committed funds, we enable efficient deal execution for operators who meet our high standards.
AIA manages financial and administrative tasks, allowing partners to concentrate on driving business success.
With guidance in fundraising, M&A, and beyond, our program offers an unmatched opportunity for experienced managers to acquire SMEs.
Diverse industry experience and proven success across various business types—corporates, SMEs, entrepreneurial ventures, and professional services.
Leadership expertise through 5 years of general management with P&L responsibility, and 15+ years of professional experience post-education.
Regional knowledge and fluent in local business etiquette and language, with deep roots in the region of focus.
Industry credibility with genuine passion and credibility in one or more of AIA’s key investment industries.
Entrepreneurial drive and the mindset to originate and execute deals, ready to step into a CEO role.
Balanced ambition with a unique blend of humility and drive, committed to long-term success.
AIA’s successful entrepreneurs provide the capital support you need, so a lack-of-funding won’t stand in the way of a successful management buy-in.
For executives, securing funds is often the hardest part of acquiring a business. Even after identifying a strong target and completing due diligence, deals can collapse due to last-minute funding gaps.
With committed funding from entrepreneurial investors, the capital will be available to make deals happen.
AIA MBI Program Advantage
Markus Gräber, a senior executive with expertise in consulting and digital transformation, saw Xplanis AG as the ideal platform to pursue his vision of acquiring and growing a company in the DACH region. Although terms were quickly agreed, the deal almost collapsed—until our founding investor stepped in to bridge the funding gap.
Watch the video above to see how the deal was secured by quick reactions from the key investor in this MBI.
Spanning 10 to 15 weeks, the process requires a time commitment of at least 40 hours, including interviews and preparation.
Candidates begin by submitting a CV, completing a questionnaire, and signing a non-disclosure agreement (NDA) to access detailed program information.
Candidates then move through a structured selection process, which includes personalised coaching on their investment thesis, leadership assessments, and technical interviews to evaluate experience and motivations.
The final stage is a jury panel presentation, where candidates pitch their thesis and alignment with AIA’s investment strategy.
If you are interested in joining our management buy-in (MBI) program, or if you have identified a potential acquisition opportunity, we invite you to submit your application using the button below
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