Finance & M&A (m/f/d) - Graduate Program

The Program Our 24-month Graduate Program offers you a structured entry into finance and M&A at Holtzbrinck. Through four rotations in group & investment controlling, M&A, and project-based roles, you will develop a strong foundation in financial analysis, strategic decision-making, and transaction processes, while also exploring topics such as AI-driven finance.

From day one, you will take on responsibility, contribute to cross-functional projects, and continuously develop your skills in a dynamic and international environment. You will also have the opportunity to complete one of your rotations in an international business unit, gaining broad insights into our group and building a strong internal network.

The program is designed to prepare you for a range of roles in finance, M&A, and strategy across the group, with development paths shaped by your strengths and interests.

What You Will Be Doing

• You will work on a wide range of operational and strategic finance topics (e.g. group & investment controlling and performance management) as well as M&A activities. You will contribute to core finance processes and strategic projects, gaining hands-on experience, exposure to senior stakeholders, and building deep functional expertise.

As part of a collaborative and driven environment, you will:

• Conduct in-depth financial, performance, market and portfolio analyses, deriving actionable insights on KPIs and key value drivers
• Support core finance processes such as financial reporting, group consolidation, and planning, and contribute to the implementation and continuous improvement of finance systems, with a focus on data quality and transparency
• Prepare decision-making materials, reports, and presentations for Senior Management, the Management Board and the Supervisory Board
• Contribute to M&A activities, including target screening, financial modelling, transaction execution and due diligence processes
• Develop and enhance business intelligence solutions, automation, and AI-driven steering tools (e.g. dashboards, forecasting approaches, KPI frameworks)

What we are looking for We are looking for analytically strong and driven graduates with a keen interest in finance, M&A, and the role of finance in shaping business decisions and driving value creation.

What You Bring

• Strong academic background in Finance, Economics, Business Administration, or a related field
• Solid understanding of financial concepts (e.g. financial statements, valuation basics, financial planning)
• Initial practical experience in finance, controlling, consulting, M&A or related areas (e.g. internships or working student roles)
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret complex financial data and derive actionable insights
• Hands-on experience with analytical tools (e.g. Excel) and first exposure to financial modelling
• High level of ownership and accountability, with the ability to work independently and take initiative in a fast-paced environment
• Structured and reliable way of working, combined with a strong attention to detail
• Strong communication skills in German and English and the ability to present complex topics in a clear and concise way
• Curiosity for and a solid understanding of data, automation, and AI – particularly in a finance context

What we offer

• A full-time, permanent position within a 24-month Graduate Program, offering long-term career opportunities beyond the program within our group
• Close collaboration with a small, driven team of experienced finance professionals
• Dedicated mentoring and personalized development throughout the program, including tailored learning opportunities
• A learning-focused environment that encourages curiosity, experimentation, and continuous growth
• A flexible, hybrid setup in Stuttgart or Munich
• A supportive work culture with a strong focus on collaboration and work-life balance

We are committed to diversity and inclusion and recognize the many benefits of a diverse workforce with equal opportunities for all. We strive to create an inclusive work environment that provides all our employees the opportunity to grow. Our search for the best talent fully embraces and promotes these values and principles.