Novastone Capital Advisors (NCA) is a global firm addressing succession challenges for Small to Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs). Our Operator-Led Buyout Program (OLBO) offers a structured approach to business succession, ensuring success for all stakeholders.

The Role

NCA seeks ambitious mid-career professionals to partner with us in searching, acquiring, and leading a small or medium-sized enterprise as Chief Executive Officer. You will conduct a professional search for up to 24 months to acquire a company, with access to extensive support from NCA and a competitive compensation package that includes meaningful equity in the acquired business.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with NCA to establish a search process to generate deal flow and identify potential acquisitions.
• Manage the acquisition process with guidance from our experienced Investment Management team.
• Assume the CEO role of the newly acquired business.
• Proactively explore strategic growth options and develop long-term business strategies and 100-day plans.
• Drive top-line growth through effective marketing and sales initiatives.
• Review product/service offerings and portfolio strategies to identify gaps and implement improvements.
• Manage geographical expansions and implement market entry strategies as needed.
• Ensure operational efficiency and profitable growth.

Requirements

• 15+ years of professional experience, including 5+ years in leadership roles with full P&L responsibility.
• Academic achievement (Executive MBA or MBA preferred).
• Minimum 10+ years of proven experience in running and growing businesses or business units in the Netherlands.
• Strong entrepreneurial motivation.
• Fluent in English and Dutch.
• Deep expertise or strategic vision in one or more of the following sectors: Business Services, Healthcare Services, Niche Manufacturing, Software/Tech-Enabled Businesses, Distribution & Logistics.

Nice to Have

• M&A experience.
• Consulting experience from a top consulting firm.
• Experience managing and operating an SME.
• Owner, Founder, or co-Founder of a startup.
• Experience in global business development and international expansion.
• Recent successful business transformation experience.

Selection Process

Every application is personally reviewed by our team, without automated screening. Selected candidates will undergo several in-depth interviews, online assessments, and meet stakeholders while reviewing their investment thesis. The process includes informative webinars for candidates to learn more about the program and meet the NCA team. The final assessment center will take place in September 2026.

We are committed to equal opportunity in our program. All submitted CVs undergo the same application process, regardless of personal characteristics. For more information about the program and the selection process, please visit our website at www.novastone-ca.com.