Finance & M&A Graduate Program

Program Overview

This 24-month Graduate Program at Holtzbrinck provides a structured pathway into finance and M&A, featuring four rotations covering group & investment controlling, M&A, and project-related roles. The program emphasizes financial analysis, strategic decision-making, transaction processes, and cutting-edge areas like AI-powered finance insights.

Participants will assume responsibilities from the outset, contribute to cross-functional initiatives, and enhance their expertise within an international setting. An international rotation opportunity deepens business unit understanding and facilitates internal networking. This experience equips graduates for diverse finance, M&A, and strategy positions, with career development tailored to individual strengths and interests.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage operational and strategic finance assignments including group & investment controlling and performance management, while actively engaging in M&A tasks.
• Perform comprehensive financial, market, portfolio, and performance analyses to generate meaningful insights on KPIs and value drivers.
• Support critical finance activities such as financial reporting, group consolidation, planning, and enhance finance systems focusing on improving data quality and transparency.
• Prepare management reports, presentations, and decision-making documents for senior executives including the Management and Supervisory Boards.
• Participate in M&A processes like target evaluation, financial modeling, transaction execution, and due diligence.
• Develop and improve business intelligence, automation, and AI-driven control tools such as dashboards, forecasts, and KPI frameworks.

Candidate Profile

• Demonstrates strong analytical capability with a solid academic foundation in Finance, Economics, Business Administration or related disciplines.
• Possesses a firm grasp of financial principles including statements, valuation methods, and planning.
• Brings initial practical experience via internships or working student roles in finance, controlling, consulting, or M&A.
• Exhibits excellent problem-solving skills with the capacity to interpret complex financial data into actionable conclusions.
• Has practical skills with analytical tools, particularly Excel, and exposure to financial modeling.
• Shows high initiative, accountability, and can work autonomously in dynamic environments.
• Maintains structured, detail-oriented work habits.
• Communicates effectively in both German and English, capable of clear presentation of complex topics.
• Shows curiosity and understanding of data analytics, automation, and AI applications within finance.

What We Offer

• Permanent full-time role embedded within the 24-month Graduate Program, with prospects for ongoing career growth within the organization.
• Close engagement with an experienced and motivated finance team.
• Personalized mentoring and development plans, including tailored learning opportunities throughout the program.
• A culture encouraging continuous learning, curiosity, and innovation.
• Flexible hybrid workplace options available in Stuttgart or Munich.
• A supportive and collaborative environment promoting work-life balance.

Diversity & Inclusion

Holtzbrinck is devoted to fostering an inclusive and diverse workforce, providing equal opportunities to all employees. We are committed to creating a workplace where everyone can thrive and contribute meaningfully.