A Win-Win: Self-funded Searchers as Freelance Talent for New Operators?

searcher profile

August 29, 2025

by a searcher from WHU-Otto Beisheim School of Management in Munich, Germany

Hello Searchfunders, I see a common challenge in our community: self-funded searchers face runway pressure, while (I can imagine) new operators are often overwhelmed and appreciate immediate help executing their plans post acquisition. The Idea: Matchmaking for Project-Based Work What if we connect new operators with active self-funded searchers for short-term, paid projects? This creates a powerful win-win: For Self-funded Searchers: Extend your financial runway while gaining invaluable, hands-on experience inside a post-acquisition SMB. It’s essentially paid training for your future CEO role. For New Operators: Access affordable, highly-motivated talent (MBAs, ex-consultants) to tackle critical projects without the cost or commitment of a full-time hire. While compensation would be below past corporate salaries, the blend of income and direct operational experience could be a compelling offer. Quick Questions: Is this already happening? What have been the key takeaways? Operators: Would you hire an active searcher for a 3-6 month project? What are your reservations? Searchers: Would you want to complement your search with a gig like this? What would make it an easy "yes"? Looking forward to the discussion.
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commentor profile
Reply by a searcher
from University of Southern California in New York, NY, USA
I’m still in search. But as I start to model out post acquisition and think of hiring needs, the last thing I would want is to train someone for 3-6 months just knowing they’re going to leave to do their own thing. But I do agree with the merits of freelancing. On a project basis, I will perform fractional work as a sales mercenary for hire. Mostly in person work at conferences. High volume, short periods of working time, networking, and no lead follow-up.
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Reply by a searcher
from INSEAD in München, Deutschland
I think it is a very interesting idea, both from my current point of view as a searcher as from my (hopeful) future point of view as an owner. Depending on the company I buy it might be very helpful, to have someone challenging and supporting me in the early phases, e.g. on issues of an initial setup of areas that are more temporary. E.g. if I need to find a new ERP and at the same time revamp the whole sales process, I'd take help on one of these happily. Happy to go into more detail 1:1 (especially as we are both in Munich)
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