SUMMARY:
Our client is seeking a highly analytical, detail-oriented, and resourceful Specialist: Open-Source Intelligence (OSINT) – M&A to join their team.
The successful candidate will be responsible for conducting in-depth open-source intelligence research, due diligence, and risk assessments to support mergers and acquisitions (M&A) activities. The role involves gathering, verifying, and analysing publicly available information to identify potential risks, reputational concerns, ownership structures, and other material insights relating to acquisition targets, business partners, and key stakeholders.
POSITION INFO:
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!
