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

The Role

As an NCA Operator, you will lead a professional search lasting up to 24 months to acquire a small to mid-sized company. You will receive comprehensive support from NCA throughout the search process, along with a competitive compensation package and significant equity in the acquired company, enhancing your entrepreneurial journey.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate to establish a search process that generates sufficient deal flow aimed at finding a business to acquire based on pre-defined criteria.
• Manage the acquisition process with support from our experienced Investment Management team.
• Assume the CEO role of the newly acquired business.
• Proactively generate and evaluate strategic growth options, develop long-term business strategies, and create 100-day plans.
• Drive top-line growth through impactful marketing and sales initiatives.
• Review product/service offerings, portfolio strategies, and brand positioning to identify gaps and implement improvements.
• Manage geographical expansions, preparing and executing market entry strategies as needed.
• Ensure operational efficiency and profitable growth.

Requirements

• 15+ years of professional experience, including at least 5 years in leadership roles with full P&L responsibility.
• Academic achievement, preferably an Executive MBA or MBA degree.
• Minimum 10+ years of proven track record in running and growing businesses or business units in the Netherlands.
• Strong motivation towards entrepreneurship.
• 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 start-up.
• Experience in global business development and international expansion.
• Recent successful business transformation experience.
• Open-mindedness towards learning and adaptability.

Selection Process

Selected candidates will undergo several in-depth interviews, complete online assessments, meet various stakeholders while reviewing their investment thesis, and present a business case assignment over several weeks. The selection process includes informative webinars for candidates to gather more information about the program and meet the NCA team. The final assessment center with jury selection will take place in September 2026.

We are an Equal Opportunity program, and all submitted CVs go through the same application process, regardless of gender, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, race, political affiliation, marital status, disability, age, parental status, or any other non-merit factor. For more information on the program, our application, and selection process, please refer to our website www.novastone-ca.com.