Cantaloupe AI Advisor
Cantaloupe AI
About the Role
Cantaloupe AI is seeking a seasoned HR technology industry veteran to serve as a Strategic Acquisition Advisor. This is a fractional, commission-oriented engagement designed to accelerate our path to a successful exit by leveraging deep industry relationships, M&A expertise, and product positioning guidance
What you'll do
- Conduct a comprehensive product audit and acquisition readiness assessment within the first 30 days
- Identify, prioritize, and execute warm introductions to strategic acquirers including enterprise HCM platforms, ATS vendors, and HR tech investment arms
- Advise on product roadmap gaps and customer usage narratives that strengthen acquisition appeal
- Develop and refine external-facing materials (one-pagers, pitch decks, positioning docs) for buyer conversations
- Represent Cantaloupe at relevant industry conferences and networking events (e.g., HR Tech, Unleash)
- Provide ongoing intelligence on competitive landscape, acquirer appetite, and deal timing
- Guide the founding team through deal structuring, diligence preparation, and negotiation strategy
What we're looking for
- 15+ years in the HR technology industry in a senior strategic, product, or business development capacity
- Demonstrated M&A experience — either as an advisor, acquirer, or founder who has navigated a successful exit
- Active, senior-level relationships with decision-makers at major HCM/ATS platforms (e.g., UKG, Workday, ADP, SuccessFactors, Cornerstone)
- Deep understanding of the talent acquisition and workforce management software landscape
- Proven ability to position early-stage products for strategic sale
- Strong executive communication and stakeholder management skills
Nice to have
- Prior experience advising or investing through an HR tech accelerator or venture arm (e.g., ADP Ventures)
- Familiarity with the QSR, hourly workforce, or frontline employee segment
- Existing relationships with emerging acquirers in the space (e.g., Darwin Box, iCIMS, Phenom)
- Conference presence and visibility at HR Tech, Unleash, or similar events
- Experience advising on asset sales specifically (vs. full company acquisitions)
- Prior CHRO network or credibility as an industry thought leader