Open-Source Intelligence_M&A Specialist

Key Responsibilities

1. Open-Source Intelligence (OSINT) Research

• Conduct comprehensive OSINT investigations on potential acquisition targets, companies, executives, shareholders, and other relevant stakeholders.
• Identify, collect, and analyse information from publicly available sources, including company registries, regulatory filings, news platforms, court records, corporate websites, and social media.
• Develop detailed intelligence profiles on individuals, organisations, and entities relevant to M&A transactions.
• Apply advanced online research techniques to uncover relevant information, relationships, affiliations, and potential undisclosed risks.
• Verify the accuracy, credibility, and reliability of information obtained from multiple sources.

2. Mergers and Acquisitions Due Diligence

• Support pre-acquisition due diligence by conducting background research and intelligence assessments on target companies.
• Investigate corporate ownership structures, beneficial ownership, directorships, business affiliations, and related-party relationships.
• Identify potential red flags, including reputational risks, litigation exposure, regulatory concerns, fraud allegations, sanctions exposure, and adverse media.
• Assess the potential implications of identified risks for proposed transactions.
• Provide intelligence support throughout the M&A lifecycle, from initial target screening to transaction completion.

3. Risk Identification and Analysis

• Conduct reputational, financial, operational, regulatory, and integrity-related research within the scope of the role.
• Identify and assess potential exposure to corruption, fraud, conflicts of interest, money laundering, and other financial crime risks.
• Monitor developments relating to acquisition targets and relevant stakeholders that may affect transaction decisions.
• Distinguish verified facts from allegations, unconfirmed information, and analytical assessments.
• Escalate significant findings and emerging risks to relevant stakeholders.

4. Intelligence Reporting

• Prepare comprehensive OSINT reports, due diligence assessments, risk summaries, and intelligence briefings.
• Present complex findings in a clear, concise, and evidence-based manner.
• Provide source references, supporting documentation, and an audit trail for key findings.
• Develop executive summaries highlighting material risks, intelligence gaps, and recommended areas for further investigation.
• Present findings to internal stakeholders, including M&A teams, legal professionals, compliance teams, and senior management.

5. Stakeholder Engagement

• Collaborate with M&A, corporate finance, legal, compliance, risk, and investment teams.
• Support transaction teams with timely intelligence and research throughout the deal process.
• Engage with internal stakeholders to understand intelligence requirements and transaction-specific risks.
• Maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive business information appropriately.

6. Research Tools and Methodologies

• Utilise OSINT platforms, search engines, corporate databases, public records, and digital research tools.
• Apply structured research methodologies and intelligence analysis techniques.
• Maintain accurate research records, source logs, and investigation documentation.
• Stay informed about emerging OSINT tools, digital research techniques, and developments in due diligence practices.

Minimum Requirements

• Honours degree in Digital Forensics,Information Technology,Law,Statistics or Cyber Security.
• 10 years in Digital Forensics,Law Enforcement,Intelligence,Cyber Security or Financial Audit envirnment.
• Certified Ethical Hacker
• Microsoft Security Associate
• Association of certified fraud Examiner-ACFE - CFE
• Relevant experience in Open-Source Intelligence, corporate intelligence, due diligence, investigations, risk analysis, or a similar role.
• Experience conducting research and background investigations on companies, individuals, and corporate structures.
• Understanding of mergers and acquisitions, corporate transactions, and commercial due diligence.
• Knowledge of corporate governance, regulatory compliance, and reputational risk principles.
• Demonstrated ability to analyse information from multiple sources and produce structured reports.

Required Skills and Competencies

• Advanced online research and investigative skills.
• Strong analytical and critical-thinking abilities.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• High attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to identify patterns, connections, inconsistencies, and potential risks.
• Strong report-writing and presentation skills.
• Ability to manage multiple research assignments and meet tight deadlines.
• Sound judgement, discretion, and professional integrity.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team.
• Strong organisational and time-management skills.

Advantageous Requirements

• Experience supporting M&A transactions, investment decisions, or corporate investigations.
• Familiarity with beneficial ownership research and complex corporate structures.
• Knowledge of sanctions screening, politically exposed persons (PEPs), and adverse media screening.
• Experience using commercial intelligence databases and specialist OSINT tools.
• Understanding of South African and international corporate regulatory environments.
• Relevant professional certifications in OSINT, intelligence analysis, fraud examination, or financial crime compliance.
• Experience conducting cross-border research and investigations.

Please Apply Now!