Our client, a top tier consulting firm, is seeking a Consultant to co-lead commercial due diligence for a furniture company acquisition. This three-week engagement in Sydney or Melbourne requires a seasoned professional who can work within a structured DD team (Manager, Consultant, Associate Consultant, and 1-2 junior Associates) to drive insights across critical workstreams beyond market sizing, such as competitive analysis, customer diligence, and growth strategy validation. You'll work both independently and collaboratively, primarily supporting client meetings whilst taking ownership of key analytical modules. This role requires on-site or hybrid attendance, offering the opportunity to demonstrate strategic leadership on a significant M&A transaction.

Key Activities

• Workstream Leadership: Lead DD workstreams beyond market sizing (e.g., competitive positioning, customer analysis, growth strategy validation)
• Hypothesis Development: Develop hypotheses and detailed work plans for assigned workstreams
• Case-Cracking: Synthesise insights from multiple analytical streams to identify key value drivers, risks, and strategic considerations
• Quality Assurance: Supervise and quality-assure complex analyses and models developed by the Associate Consultant and junior associates
• Stakeholder Management: Lead interviews with target company management, customers, suppliers, and industry experts
• Meeting Support: Primarily support client meetings and presentations, contributing insights and recommendations
• Project Execution: Work closely with the Manager to ensure deliverables meet quality standards and timelines

Your Background

Essential:

• 4-6 years of experience in commercial due diligence at a tier 1-2 consulting firm (Big 4, MBB, or equivalent transaction advisory)
• Proven ability to lead DD workstreams (competitive analysis, customer diligence, growth strategy) independently and collaboratively
• Strong track record supervising analytical work and quality-assuring complex models
• Experience supporting client-facing interactions and contributing to presentations
• Demonstrated ability to synthesise insights and drive case-cracking in DD contexts
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills

Desirable:

• Direct experience with furniture, homewares, retail, or consumer goods sectors
• Experience with buy-side commercial DD
• Familiarity with Australian M&A market and competitive landscape
• Background supporting private equity or strategic acquirer clients
• Track record on accelerated DD timelines (3-4 weeks)