Advisory Lead, Software & AI

West Monroe•Minneapolis, MN

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

Mergers & Transaction Services Advisory Lead, Software & AI West Monroe is seeking a Mergers & Transaction Services, (MTS) Advisory Lead, Software & AI to join our Technology & Experience (TechEx) practice. This executive-level technology leader partners with private equity firms, corporate development teams, and C-suite executives to evaluate software companies and technology-enabled businesses throughout the M&A lifecycle. Serving as a trusted advisor, the Advisory Lead shapes investment decisions by assessing software products, AI capabilities, engineering organizations, enterprise architecture, and technology operating models while identifying opportunities to accelerate value creation. This role combines deep technical expertise with commercial acumen to lead complex engagements, originate new client opportunities, and advance West Monroe's Software & AI transaction advisory capabilities.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Information Systems, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience.
10+ years of experience in technology consulting, software engineering, enterprise architecture, product engineering, or technology advisory, including leadership of complex client engagements.
Deep expertise evaluating software products, engineering organizations, enterprise architecture, cloud platforms, AI-enabled applications, and technology operating models.
Experience advising private equity firms, strategic acquirers, or corporate clients on software and technology due diligence, technology strategy, or digital transformation initiatives.
Demonstrated expertise in generative AI, agentic AI, large language models (LLMs), orchestration frameworks, AI governance, and emerging AI technologies.
Strong understanding of AI-enabled software engineering and agentic development across the SDLC, with experience using AI to improve engineering productivity, software quality, delivery, and developer workflows.
Proven success originating business, leading executive client relationships, shaping large pursuits, and delivering strategic technology advisory services.
Exceptional executive communication, facilitation, and presentation skills with the ability to influence senior business and technology leaders.
Experience integrating AI tools (e.g., ChatGPT) into day-to-day workflows to enhance productivity and insight generation, coupled with strong critical thinking to assess accuracy, mitigate bias, and ensure high-quality outputs.
Ability to travel 25 to 50%.
Hybrid role with 2+ days per week in a West Monroe office.
A commitment to inclusion and diversity, and openness to new ideas and perspectives.
Ability to work permanently in the United States without sponsorship.

Responsibilities

Serve as the executive advisor for complex software and AI technology due diligence engagements, guiding clients through acquisitions, divestitures, carve-outs, integrations, and strategic investments.
Evaluate software platforms, product architecture, AI capabilities, engineering organizations, cloud environments, and technology operating models to assess scalability, security, product maturity, and operational readiness.
Evaluate AI-enabled and agentic software development practices across the SDLC, advising clients on how coding agents, AI-assisted engineering workflows, and emerging development models can accelerate delivery, improve quality, and reshape engineering organizations.
Advise executive stakeholders on technology risk, AI strategy, engineering effectiveness, product roadmaps, and value creation opportunities that support investment theses and post-close transformation.
Lead multidisciplinary teams across software engineering, cloud, cybersecurity, infrastructure, and data to deliver integrated technology assessments and strategic recommendations.
Develop executive-level presentations and board-ready deliverables that translate complex technical findings into actionable business decisions.
Leverage AI tools to accelerate analysis, synthesize complex information, and support data-driven recommendations for clients, exercising sound judgment in evaluating outputs.
Apply AI technologies (e.g., generative AI, automation tools, data models) to enhance insights, improve delivery efficiency, and elevate the quality of client outcomes.
Originate and grow executive relationships with private equity firms, strategic investors, and corporate technology leaders, serving as a trusted advisor throughout the deal lifecycle.
Lead complex pursuits, shape solution strategies, and develop compelling proposals that position West Monroe's Software & AI advisory capabilities in the marketplace.
Identify follow-on opportunities in technology modernization, AI strategy, post-merger integration, and technology separation.
Build West Monroe's market presence through thought leadership, speaking engagements, industry events, publications, and strategic alliance relationships.
Define and evolve West Monroe's Software & AI transaction advisory offerings, methodologies, and intellectual property.
Mentor and develop consultants, architects, and technical leaders while fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and technical excellence.
Lead the development of reusable AI assessment frameworks, software due diligence accelerators, and delivery of assets that improve quality and scalability.
Partner with practice leadership to recruit top talent, expand technical capabilities, and drive the continued growth of the Mergers & Transaction Services practice.